Definition of randomnext

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 His was a random assortment, the stuff of Walmart value packs, including the clip-on bobber balls that amateurs use. Jamie Thompson, The Atlantic, 6 Nov. 2025 Five winners will be chosen at random for one prize each from the entire pool of entrants across all three platforms. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 5 Nov. 2025 At any time, he could be found setting up his equipment and spinning a random set. Essence, 4 Nov. 2025 Each month, one guest will be selected at random to be the Golden Guest, receiving a surprise in their room at check-in and exclusive perks throughout their stay, according to an email that sister property The Finch sent to former guests. Idaho Statesman, 4 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for random
Recent Examples of Synonyms for random
Adjective
  • Its fractured, scattered form, grasping for structure instead of pretending to master it, is an attempt to build a future that will include both author and reader.
    Robert Rubsam, The Atlantic, 1 Jan. 2026
  • On Sunday, rain will pick up across the Midwest from Kansas and Missouri through Ohio and Pennsylvania while scattered thunderstorms are possible from Arkansas up to Ohio, with some possibly strong enough to bring gusty winds and maybe an isolated tornado.
    Kyle Reiman, ABC News, 27 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • The National Police has been repeatedly cited by national and international human rights organizations for excessive use of force, arbitrary detentions, and the mistreatment of protesters and civilians.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 6 Jan. 2026
  • Critics say those distinctions are arbitrary and unfair, being based on outdated assumptions and bad science.
    Kevin Krause, Dallas Morning News, 6 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • These large waves can be erratic and unpredictable.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 7 Jan. 2026
  • The addiction eventually took its toll, and Chase became more erratic and difficult to work with.
    Gillian Telling, PEOPLE, 30 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • More than 110,000 people have watched that video so far, and to this day, a stray commenter still occasionally sees fit to leave a snide remark.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 4 Nov. 2025
  • This includes stray rounds, shells, or empty casings.
    Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Elvyn Yohel Ramos Routt County Investigators also said Ramos filed an insurance claim reporting the fire as accidental.
    Jennifer McRae, CBS News, 7 Jan. 2026
  • In another show, with a lesser writer, such incongruities could be read as character inconsistencies, accidental oversights, mistakes.
    Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 7 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Random.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/random. Accessed 9 Jan. 2026.

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