arbitrare

Arbitrare is a Italian verb with two main meanings. In a legal and dispute-resolution sense, it means to resolve a disagreement by arbitration, that is, to appoint an arbitrator or panel and have them render a binding decision. In a sports context, it also means to officiate a competition, i.e., to act as an referee. The related noun forms are arbitrato (the arbitration process) and arbitro (the arbitrator or referee). The adverb arbitrariamente, meaning arbitrarily, is unrelated to the act of arbitration and denotes capriciousness.

Etymology and usage. Arbitrare derives from the Latin arbitrium, meaning judgment or discretion. In contemporary Italian, the verb is used when parties agree to submit a dispute to arbitration instead of court litigation, or when a competition is supervised by an official referee. It may appear in phrases such as “contendere di ricorrere all’arbitrato” or “l’arbitro ha dirimito la controversia.” It is important to distinguish arbitrare from arbitrario, which describes behavior lacking justification or governed by personal whim.

Procedural context. In arbitration, the parties typically agree to use a neutral arbitrator or panel, determine the governing rules, and submit their claims. After hearings or written submissions, the arbitrator issues a award (sentenza arbitrale) that is usually final and binding, and internationally enforceable under instruments such as the New York Convention. Arbitration can be domestic or international and is often chosen for confidentiality, speed, or specialized expertise.

See also. Arbitration, arbitrator, arbitro, arbitrato, arbitration award.