Learn English – “At random” vs “Randomly”

adverbsdifferencephrases

Both "At random" and "Randomly" have the definition: "Without method or conscious decision."

However, can we use them interchangeably?

  • The explosions occurred at random/randomly.
  • The winner was picked at random/randomly.

"randomly" is only an adverb and "at random" is a phrase. Can we place the phrase where the adverb goes and vice versa?

  • I cut the cake randomly/at random.

Best Answer

I would say

The winner was picked at random.

That is, it was an intentionally random choice.

and

The explosions happened randomly throughout the night.

That is, following no pattern or naturally occurring cycle, showing no signs of an intentional, methodical, or natural frequency.