RANDOM Synonyms: 71 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

random

adjective

ˈran-dəm

Definition of random next

as in scattered

lacking a definite plan, purpose, or pattern since we were new in town, our choice of a vet for our dog was entirely random

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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

Examples 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 Winner selection will be conducted promptly by random drawing after the Promotion Period ends from all eligible entries. —

Vogue Club, Vogue, 21 Nov. 2024 Here are the top stories: Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has selected Jefferson County for a post-election inquiry, alongside 11 others chosen at random statewide. —

Ray Padilla, The Courier-Journal, 21 Nov. 2024 For instance, a man recently woke up in the middle of the night to a random feline warming up his toes. —

Matt Robison, Newsweek, 21 Nov. 2024 Here, the first-time director opts for a somewhat random combination of both approaches at once, and the overall result is just south of off-key. —

David Fear, Rolling Stone, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for random

Recent Examples of Synonyms for random

Adjective

Along with the combination of music and video programming, Plex has also carved out a niche for consumers who maintain their own personal libraries but don’t want to surrender them in the more arbitrary streaming era.

Dade Hayes, Deadline, 22 Nov. 2024
Examples include the awarding of government contracts without open bidding, arbitrary tax breaks, and the issuance of government licenses or mining concessions to friends.

Michael Posner, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024