haphazard
hap-HAZ-urd
/ˌhæpˈhæzərd/
Lacking any obvious principle of organization; characterized by lack of order or planning.
Suggests a messy, careless, or disorganized randomness.
The story behind the word. Combines the Old Norse 'happ' (luck/chance) with the Old French 'hasard' (a game of dice). It literally means 'the risk of chance.'
Word relationships
- random: Random is more mathematical; haphazard implies a lack of care or order.
- methodical: Done according to a systematic or established form of procedure.
Commonly confused with
- arbitrary: Arbitrary is a choice made without reason; haphazard is a state of disorder.
Word family
- haphazardly (adverb): in a disorganized way
Collocations
- haphazard fashion
- haphazard manner
- haphazard arrangement
Example sentences
- "The kitchen was a haphazard collection of mismatched plates and rusted utensils." Describing a layout.
- "The government's response to the crisis was haphazard and poorly coordinated." Describing a process.
Memory hook
Hap (as in 'perhaps') + Hazard (danger). It's a dangerous lack of planning. Messy hazard.
When not to use
Do not use for scientific randomness (use stochastic) or lucky chance (use fortuitous).
Fun facts
- The root 'hap' is also found in 'happy,' which originally meant 'lucky' or 'favored by fortune.'
Related words
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