Words / B2

hap-HAZ-uh-d/ˌhæpˈhæzəd/

Haphazard means not organised; done without a plan: a haphazard approach; haphazard sampling. Random in statistics is a technical method; haphazard is a criticism. Chaotic is stronger. A haphazard frame will fail the viva. Do not call a stratified sample haphazard.

Meaning

Not organised; done without a plan.

Examples

• “A haphazard sampling frame will not survive the methods viva.”
• “Storage in the prep room looked haphazard, which is still a criticism.”

Good to know

a haphazard + noun; in a haphazard way. Contrast: random (stats) vs haphazard (unplanned). Opposite tone: systematic. Methods sections.

Near in meaning

random

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