random procedure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "random procedure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method or process that is determined by chance rather than a specific plan or system. Example: "To ensure fairness in the selection process, we will use a random procedure to choose the winners of the contest."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Within each household one adult was designated by a random procedure as the respondent.

The New York Times

Within each household one adult was designated by a random procedure to respond to the survey.

The New York Times

In each household, one adult was designated by a random procedure to be the respondent for the survey.

The New York Times - Sports

Within each household, one adult was designated by a random procedure to be the respondent for the survey.

The New York Times

Within each household, both in the original polls and the new poll, one adult was designated by a random procedure to be the respondent for the survey.

The New York Times

Within each landline household, one adult was designated by a random procedure to be the respondent for the survey.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I didn't make any decisions in writing Carmen," Birtwistle says, since so much of the structure was generated through random procedures, "and yet it sounds like me – and no one else could have written it".

The Guardian - Music

Saccharin ethanol is an effective US in Pavlovian-autoshaping procedures, inducing more CS directed responding than in pseudoconditioning controls receiving CS US random procedures.

Alcohol

From the group of not employed electromagnetic hypersensitives, 30 controls living in the same surroundings had been nominated and 12 controls were contacted via random procedures.

Plosone

The CTAB isolation procedure produced genomic DNA fragments in the 40 kb size range, evidently a consequence of random, procedure-induced physical shearing.

BMC Plant Biology

Scatter Search is a population-based method that emphasizes systematic processes against random procedures.

BioData Mining

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing research methodologies, clarify the specific steps taken to ensure the "random procedure" is truly random and unbiased to avoid potential scrutiny.

Common error

Avoid using "random procedure" loosely. Ensure that the process genuinely involves randomness, not just a lack of clear pattern. Otherwise, opt for more accurate descriptors like "unpredictable" or "arbitrary".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "random procedure" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe a method or process determined by chance. It is commonly used in scientific, statistical, and research contexts to emphasize the unbiased nature of a selection or assignment method, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "random procedure" is a noun phrase that describes a method determined by chance, often used to ensure objectivity and impartiality. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and most frequently appears in science and news contexts. While it's a useful term, remember to clarify the specific steps taken to ensure true randomness and avoid overstating the randomness of a process. Alternatives like "chance-based method" or "aleatory process" can be used depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey. When using the phrase, it is important that you avoid overstating randomness and that you clarify your use of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chance-based method

Emphasizes the reliance on chance as the primary determinant.

aleatory process

Uses a more formal term to describe a process driven by chance or randomness.

unpredictable method

Highlights the inability to foresee the outcome of the procedure.

probabilistic approach

Focuses on the probability aspect of the procedure.

non-deterministic process

Emphasizes the lack of a predetermined sequence of steps.

arbitrary selection

Highlights the selection aspect based on no specific rule.

haphazard technique

Conveys a sense of lack of planning or order.

chance operation

Highlights that the operation outcome is determined by chance.

stochastic method

Emphasizes the involvement of randomness and probability.

uncontrolled process

Emphasizes that the process isn't governed by set parameters.

FAQs

How can I use "random procedure" in a research paper?

In a research context, "random procedure" typically refers to a method of selection or assignment where each element has an equal chance of being chosen. Clearly explain the steps you took to ensure the procedure was truly random to maintain scientific rigor. For example, describe how you used a random number generator or lottery system.

What are some alternatives to the phrase "random procedure"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives like "chance-based method", "aleatory process", or "unpredictable method". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "random procedure" and "arbitrary selection"?

While both imply a lack of a specific plan, "random procedure" suggests a formalized method to ensure unbiased selection. "Arbitrary selection" implies a decision made without any specific method or rationale, which may not be suitable in scientific contexts where impartiality is key.

When is it appropriate to use "random procedure" over "random sampling"?

"Random sampling" specifically refers to selecting a subset of a population for study. "Random procedure" is a broader term that can apply to various processes involving randomness, such as assigning participants to treatment groups or generating data for simulations. If your procedure involves selecting a sample, "random sampling" is more precise; otherwise, "random procedure" may be more appropriate.