Word of the Day
May 12, 2020
Arbitrary
Based on random choice or personal whim rather than any reason or system; subject to individual will or judgment without restriction.
From Latin 'arbitrarius' meaning 'depending on the will,' from 'arbiter' meaning 'judge or supreme ruler.'
Usage Examples
- The governor's distinction between essential and non-essential businesses seemed entirely arbitrary to struggling small business owners.
- Citizens questioned the arbitrary six-foot social distancing rule when no scientific consensus supported that specific measurement.
- Arbitrary exercise of government power undermines the rule of law and equal treatment under the Constitution.
From the Show
Patti Kurgan repeatedly characterized COVID-19 restrictions as arbitrary during the May 12th broadcast, questioning why six feet became the distancing standard and how bureaucrats determined which businesses were essential.