Willy Nilly Meaning, Synonyms with Example

“Willy-nilly” is an idiomatic expression that means doing something in a haphazard or unplanned manner, without much thought or consideration. Moreover, it often suggests a lack of order or control and implies that the action is done impulsively or randomly.

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Usage with Examples

Furthermore, in some contexts, “willy-nilly” can also mean “whether one likes it or not” or “whether one wants to or not,” indicating that something is inevitable or cannot be avoided.

Here are a few examples of willy nilly idiom mentioned below:

• He was so disorganized that he threw his clothes into the suitcase willy-nilly.
• Sarah decorated her room willy nilly, placing items wherever they fit.
• The children ran through the park willy nilly, laughing and playing with no particular direction.
• The construction crew left their tools scattered willy nilly, creating a safety hazard at the worksite.

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Synonyms and Similar Words to Willy Nilly

Here are some synonyms for the idiom willy nilly:

1. Haphazardly
2. Randomly
3. Carelessly
4. Unsystematically
5. Indiscriminately

Willy Nilly Idiom Quiz

The new manager made changes to the company’s structure willy nilly:

• without consulting the employees.
• helping friends
• finding new employees

Answer: without consulting the employees.

Also Read: Off the cuff

This was all about willy nilly meaning and examples. Hope you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.