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 Everything about Shenzi, Banzai and Ed is giving Gemini energy — Shenzi is sharp, perceptive and strategic; Banzai is reactive and argumentative, while Ed contributes random and unpredictable laughter. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026 Each Chronicle shares the thesis that monstrous, random crime is inevitable — and only a permanent technological presence can contain it. Joe Wilkins, Futurism, 24 June 2026 Her hyper-confessional nature—her willingness to express literally any random thought that came to her head—hasn’t changed. Chris Murphy, Vanity Fair, 23 June 2026 Contrary to popular belief, good luck isn't random or rare. Tina Seelig, CNBC, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for random
Recent Examples of Synonyms for random
Adjective
  • Friday, a weakening ridge and an approaching front will allow scattered showers and thunderstorms to develop.
    Lauren Bostwick, CBS News, 9 June 2026
  • Share a draft, then ask a focused question so collaborators offer helpful edits rather than scattered opinions.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 May 2026
Adjective
  • For at least a decade, federal agents followed guidelines designed to prevent arbitrary civil immigration arrests of people at courthouses.
    Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 24 June 2026
  • Some media outlets, however, reported that some of those detained were politicians or activists, leading to allegations of arbitrary detentions.
    ABC News, ABC News, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • Weather officials say erratic winds have been sending smoke to different parts of the region this weekend.
    Kayla Bartkowski, Los Angeles Times, 21 June 2026
  • That, of course, was shown at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where the Jabulani grabbed headlines for its erratic and unpredictable movement — so much so that there’s a Wikipedia page dedicated to its criticisms.
    Liam Tharme, New York Times, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • Near the end, an automatic volley machine shot out pink tennis balls that bounced onto stray drum cymbals spilled around the room.
    Andy Battaglia, ARTnews.com, 18 June 2026
  • In Charlotte, there aren’t specific regulations about maintaining stray cats, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care and Control Communications and Outreach Manager Melissa Knicely.
    Eva Flowe June 18, Charlotte Observer, 18 June 2026
Adjective
  • Always turn off the electricity and water supply line and remove nearby light fixtures when dealing with bursting ceiling pipes to avoid accidental electrocution.
    Helen Andriatsitohaina, The Spruce, 24 June 2026
  • In fact, the two met via an accidental Instagram follow.
    Kaitlyn Harvey, AJC.com, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Random.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/random. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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