die Willkür
Translation
arbitrariness, despotism, caprice
Examples
Der Herrscher regierte mit reiner Willkür.
The ruler governed with pure arbitrariness.
Die Entscheidung war ein Akt der Willkür.
The decision was an act of arbitrariness.
Grammar Patterns
die Willkür arbitrariness The dictator's arbitrariness knew no bounds.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Beliebigkeit, Despotismus; Antonyms: Rechtsstaatlichkeit (rule of law), Gesetzmäßigkeit (legality)
Etymology
From Middle High German 'willekür', a compound of 'Wille' (will) + 'kür' (choice). It literally means 'choice of will'.
Memory Tips
Picture someone making decisions based solely on their personal 'will' and 'choice', without regard for established procedures.