Synonyms of random

random

adjective

ˈran-dəm 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• scattered
• arbitrary
• erratic
• stray
• accidental
• sporadic
• haphazard
• lucky
• aimless
• odd
• casual
• contingent
• desultory
• chance
• irregular
• hit-or-miss
• slapdash
• inadvertent
• helter-skelter
• incidental
• unplanned
• unintentional
• catch-as-catch-can
• fortuitous
• unintended
• spot
• unpremeditated
• shotgun
• unconsidered
• indiscriminate
• unsystematic
• purposeless
• undirected
• directionless
• scattershot
• disorganized
• fluky
• chancy
• disorderly
• undiscriminating
• objectless
• unselective

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• regular
• systematic
• regular
• orderly
• constant
• continuous
• fixed
• organized
• stable
• steady
• nonrandom
• methodical
• established
• arranged
• even
• set
• systematized
• planned
• aware
• deliberate
• conscious
• thoughtful
• purposeful
• ordered
• managed
• willful
• orchestrated

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

Recent Examples of random

Abrams, who attended Swift’s wedding, shared a carousel of random pictures after the wedding, including her outfit. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 7 July 2026

This random, explosive fragmentation resembles the firing of a shotgun. — Jenny Whilde, The Conversation, 7 July 2026

Swift and Kelce seemed to invite some of their most random acquaintances, forcing people to figure out how celebrities like Simone Biles or Machine Gun Kelly knew the bride and groom. — Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 6 July 2026

Climate scientist Jennifer Francis of the Woodwell Climate Research Center told The Associated Press that the pattern is not random. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026

Phrases Containing random

• at random