arbitrary categorization
[/ˈɑːrbɪtreri ˌkætəɡərɪˈzeɪʃən/]
nounfemininepl: arbitrary categorizations / categorizações arbitrárias
categorização arbitrária
1. The act of dividing or classifying things into groups or categories based on personal judgment or whim rather than logical, objective, or scientific criteria
The arbitrary categorization of students by test scores alone ignores their potential for growth.
A categorização arbitrária de estudantes apenas por pontuação em testes ignora seu potencial de crescimento.
2. A classification system that lacks clear, consistent, or justifiable rules
Critics argued that the arbitrary categorization of musical genres created confusion among listeners.
Críticos argumentaram que a categorização arbitrária dos gêneros musicais criou confusão entre ouvintes.
3. The grouping of items or concepts in a manner that is not based on inherent characteristics or established standards
The arbitrary categorization of diseases led to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
A categorização arbitrária de doenças levou a diagnósticos incorretos e tratamentos inadequados.
This term is commonly used in academic, scientific, and professional discourses in both Brazil and the USA when critiquing classification systems in education, medicine, psychology, and administration. In Brazilian Portuguese, it often appears in formal writing and discussions about institutional or bureaucratic procedures. The concept is frequently invoked in social sciences and humanities to challenge biased or unfounded categorization practices.
Related Idioms & Phrases
putting things in boxes without a clear reason
throwing things into categories willy-nilly
making it up as you go along in classification
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