Synonym Chooser

How is the word random distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words casual and haphazard are common synonyms of random. While all three words mean "determined by accident rather than design," random stresses lack of definite aim, fixed goal, or regular procedure.

a random selection of books

When is casual a more appropriate choice than random?

While in some cases nearly identical to random, casual suggests working or acting without deliberation, intention, or purpose.

a casual collector

When is it sensible to use haphazard instead of random?

Although the words haphazard and random have much in common, haphazard applies to what is done without regard for regularity or fitness or ultimate consequence.

a haphazard collection of rocks

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of random Something about being weightless and floating in a pool, making up random games with my friends, always brought me joy. Stephanie Sengwe, People.com, 20 June 2025 Emerson said the pages can be read in sequence, at random or skimmed until readers find a page that resonates with them. Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 June 2025 Walter does not conduct himself like George Steinbrenner, firing underlings seemingly at random. Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 19 June 2025 The moths were totally disoriented, flying every which way at random. Lauren Leffer, Popular Science, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for random
Recent Examples of Synonyms for random
Adjective
  • This anecdote is a perfect snapshot of Jameela’s lifelong refusal to accept arbitrary rules.
    Mandeep Rai, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
  • Choosing a side for the wall would have been arbitrary.
    Jack Lang, New York Times, 22 June 2025
Adjective
  • According to Red Bull team boss Christian Horner, the team's complaint is due to erratic driving behind the safety car and not leaving an appropriate gap.
    Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 2025
  • And some erratic vibrations were detected at points last week as the stark outperformance of year-to-date laggards over the top 2025 performers prompted some comparisons to the nasty momentum-stock reversal of February and March that upset the market well before the tariff panic.
    Michael Santoli, CNBC, 14 June 2025
Adjective
  • Alcaraz duly escaped the adversity, but not without a time violation and a funny moment of tension when someone in the crowd returned a stray ball between the Spaniard’s first and second serves.
    James Hansen, New York Times, 22 June 2025
  • Police said 11-year-old Willow James was struck in the head by a stray bullet May 28 while riding home from school in a vehicle with her father and cousin in the 15800 block of Paulina Avenue.
    Mike Nolan, Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2025
Adjective
  • Investigators ruled Coleman's death as accidental shortly after the incident in 2010.
    Liza Esquibias, People.com, 17 June 2025
  • Learn how to use gym equipment properly to avoid accidental injuries, if gym equipment is a part of your routine.
    Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 16 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Random.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/random. Accessed 29 Jun. 2025.

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