random

[ˈrændəm]

random Definition

  • 1made, done, or happening without method or conscious decision
  • 2unpredictable in an interesting or exciting way

Using random: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "random" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I just picked a random book off the shelf.

  • Example

    The winner was chosen by a random drawing.

  • Example

    We took a random walk through the city.

  • Example

    The computer generated a random number.

random Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with random

  • without a definite plan, aim, or purpose

    Example

    She chose her clothes at random from the wardrobe.

  • a spontaneous and unexpected gesture of goodwill towards another person

    Example

    He bought coffee for the stranger behind him in line as a random act of kindness.

  • a sample taken from a larger population that is chosen randomly, so that each member of the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample

    Example

    The survey was conducted using a random sample of 1000 people.

Origins of random

from Old French 'randon', meaning 'impetuosity, speed, force'

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Summary: random in Brief

The term 'random' [ˈrændəm] refers to something made, done, or happening without method or conscious decision. It can also mean unpredictable in an interesting or exciting way. Examples include 'The computer generated a random number.' and 'We took a random walk through the city.' Phrases like 'at random' denote a lack of plan or purpose, while 'random act of kindness' describes a spontaneous gesture of goodwill.

How do native speakers use this expression?