The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

haphazard

IPA:

Dictionary definition of haphazard

Lacking order, planning, or organization, often occurring in a random, unplanned, or chaotic manner.
"The haphazard layout of the website made it difficult to find information."

Detailed meaning of haphazard

When a situation or process is labeled as 'haphazard,' it suggests that it is characterized by a lack of careful thought or methodical structure. This term conveys the idea of something being done without a clear strategy or purpose, and it often implies that the outcome is uncertain or unreliable due to its arbitrary or sporadic nature. 'Haphazard' is typically associated with a lack of predictability or consistency, emphasizing the absence of a systematic approach or deliberate intention in how something is carried out or arranged.

Example sentences containing haphazard

1. The haphazard arrangement of furniture made the room feel cluttered and chaotic.
2. Despite her haphazard approach, she somehow managed to complete the project successfully.
3. His haphazard lifestyle was a source of constant worry for his parents.
4. The child's haphazard attempts to paint left splashes of color all over the table.
5. In a haphazard fashion, he packed his suitcase, stuffing in clothes without folding them.
6. The haphazard distribution of resources in the city led to significant disparities.

History and etymology of haphazard

The adjective 'haphazard' is thought to have evolved from the English phrase 'hap' (meaning 'chance' or 'luck') and 'hazard' (meaning 'risk' or 'danger'). It emerged in the late 16th century. 'Haphazard' describes something lacking order, planning, or organization, often occurring in a random, unplanned, or chaotic manner. The etymology of 'haphazard' effectively combines the idea of chance or luck with that of risk or danger, highlighting the notion that actions or events occurring in a haphazard manner are characterized by unpredictability and the potential for adverse outcomes. Whether used to describe haphazard decision-making, a haphazard arrangement of objects, or a haphazard sequence of events, this term underscores the absence of deliberate intention or systematic design.

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Further usage examples of haphazard

1. A haphazard collection of books sat gathering dust on the old wooden shelf.
2. He assembled the ingredients in a haphazard manner, but the meal turned out delicious.
3. The garden's haphazard design somehow added to its wild, natural charm.
4. Her essay was a haphazard blend of brilliant ideas and irrelevant thoughts.
5. His haphazard approach to studying did not help his grades.
6. The painting’s haphazard use of color brought it a unique kind of vibrancy.
7. The haphazard placement of the tents made the campsite look disorderly.
8. Despite the haphazard scheduling, the event was a surprising success.
9. She wore a haphazard assortment of jewelry that somehow worked together beautifully.
10. His haphazard behavior was indicative of his free-spirited nature.
11. Their haphazard planning resulted in a confusing and unproductive meeting.
12. The haphazard sequence of chapters in the book left readers puzzled.
13. His notes were a haphazard jumble of facts and opinions, difficult to decipher.
14. Her haphazard filing system made finding anything a quest in itself.