at random; by chance; randomly
1. in a manner determined by chance rather than design; without a specific plan or method
He picked a book from the shelf at random.
Ele pegou um livro da prateleira ao acaso.
2. by accident or coincidence; without intention
They met by chance at the airport.
Eles se encontraram ao acaso no aeroporto.
3. haphazardly; without order or system
The items were scattered randomly across the floor.
Os itens foram espalhados ao acaso pelo chão.
This phrase is fundamental in Brazilian Portuguese and is used frequently in both formal and informal contexts. It reflects the cultural acceptance of fate and chance in decision-making, often appearing in literature, casual conversation, and formal writing. The expression embodies a philosophical approach to uncertainty that is common in Portuguese-speaking cultures.
NYC Slang
at random; by chance
Related Idioms & Phrases
deixar algo ao acaso (to leave something to chance)
escolher ao acaso (to choose randomly)
encontrar-se ao acaso (to meet by chance)
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