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random

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random number

A number selected without any criteria, often by some sort of generator, such as a computer program. Don't worry, we're not choosing the winner ourselves—we'll draw a random number to determine who wins.

See also: number, random

at random

With no discernable pattern or reasoning. We will choose a raffle winner at random.

See also: random

at random

by chance; haphazard. The lottery numbers are chosen at random. As a prank, the children dialed phone numbers at random.

See also: random

at random

Without order or fixed purpose, haphazardly, as in Jackson Pollock dropped paints on canvas seemingly at random. Originally this phrase meant "very speedily" and "heedlessly." Shakespeare had the present usage in 1 Henry VI (5:3): "He talks at random; sure the man is mad." [Late 1500s]

See also: random

at random

Without a governing design, method, or purpose; unsystematically: chose a card at random from the deck.

See also: random