randomness

/ˈrændəmnəs/
noun★Intermediate— lack of predictability or order
general

the quality or state of lacking a predictable pattern or order

The randomness of the lottery ensures fairness.

The unpredictability of the lottery ensures that everyone has an equal chance.

💡

Often used in contexts where unpredictability is a key feature, such as in probability, statistics, or everyday life.

Collocations

randomness of lifethe unpredictable nature of liferandomness in naturethe unpredictable patterns found in nature

Related Phrases

random walkphrase
a mathematical formalization of a path that consists of a succession of random steps
random variablephrase
a variable whose possible values are numerical outcomes of a random phenomenon

💡Pro Tip

Scientific vs. Everyday Use

In science, 'randomness' often refers to statistical unpredictability, while in everyday language, it can describe anything that seems haphazard or unplanned.

⚡Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

While 'randomness' is useful for describing unpredictability, avoid using it in contexts where 'chaos' or 'disorder' would be more precise.

📖Word Origin

From 'random' (early 16th century) + '-ness' (suffix forming abstract nouns). 'Random' comes from the Middle French 'ramdon' or 'randon,' meaning 'will, desire, whim,' from the Old French 'randon' (will, desire, pleasure).

📝Usage Notes

Often used in scientific, mathematical, and philosophical contexts to describe systems or events that lack a discernible pattern.

Word Breakdown

random
lacking a predictable pattern
root
+
-ness
the state or quality of
suffix
English Dictionary