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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 If something feels off, like a job that sounds too good to be true, a random Teams message with a sketchy link or an interview that is just a chat, trust your instincts. —

Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 10 Feb. 2025 In the event of ties, a random drawing could be used. —

Peter Callaghan, Twin Cities, 6 Feb. 2025 Go together to the rink, share memories, write about them, find a way to process a random, senseless event, and its complicated emotions of horror, grief, and opportunity. —

Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Feb. 2025 The robot learns in a virtual environment, earning higher scores for better stacking performance with random items. —

Kurt Knutsson, Cyberguy Report, Fox News, 30 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for random

Recent Examples of Synonyms for random

Adjective

The doctors argued the removal was arbitrary and capricious, violating the Administrative Procedure Act and the Paperwork Reduction Act.

— Bart Jansen, USA TODAY, 11 Feb. 2025
Driving the news: The states charge the administration acted in an arbitrary and capricious way by not explaining the basis for the cap.

— Tina Reed, Axios, 10 Feb. 2025