arbitrary; dogmatic; jump to conclusions
Meanings
3 senses · 9 examplesverb
to judge arbitrarily; to make subjective judgments without sufficient evidence
Often used in negative contexts or with cautionary tones (e.g., 不敢武断). Implies a lack of thorough investigation.
I don't know enough about this matter to make arbitrary judgments.
Without thorough investigation, one cannot jump to conclusions.
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He never criticizes others without knowing the full story.
adjective
arbitrary; subjective; dogmatic; peremptory
Describes speech, decisions, or behavior that is one-sided, lacks objective consideration, and often ignores others' opinions.
Making a decision like this is a bit too arbitrary.
His attitude is very dogmatic; he doesn't listen to others' opinions at all.
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Leaders shouldn't be too arbitrary; they should listen more to their team's suggestions.
Speaking dogmatically can easily offend people.
verb
to judge arbitrarily using power or influence; to pervert justice with authority
archaicClassical/literary usage. Refers to local tyrants or powerful individuals who bully others by arbitrarily adjudicating disputes using their power. Commonly seen in the phrase 武断乡曲.
Powerful local tyrants arbitrarily adjudicated village disputes and oppressed the common people.
to bully local people by arbitrarily judging village disputes with power; high-handed adjudication in one's locality