expedient
Expedient (adjective) means Convenient and practical for achieving a goal, though not necessarily right or moral. Example: “It was politically expedient to avoid the issue before the election.”
How to use expedient
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that's convenient and gets quick results, even if it isn't the most honest or ideal choice.
Expedient often carries a slightly negative shade — implying self-interest rather than doing the right thing. Don't confuse with "expeditious," which just means fast.
Word forms
more expedient comparative, expedients plural, most expedient superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was politically _____ to avoid the issue before the election.
Etymology
From Latin expediens, "advantageous," from expedire, "to make ready, be useful," from ex- ("out") plus pes ("foot") — the underlying image is of freeing the feet to move.
Related words
Rhymes for expedient
See all rhymes for expedient →Frequently asked questions
What does “expedient” mean?
The word “expedient” means convenient and practical for achieving a goal, though not necessarily right or moral. In plain terms, something that's convenient and gets quick results, even if it isn't the most honest or ideal choice.
How do you pronounce “expedient”?
“Expedient” is pronounced ihk-SPEE-dee-uhnt (/ɪkˈspiːdi.ənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “expedient” in a sentence?
Here is “expedient” used in a sentence: “It was politically expedient to avoid the issue before the election.”
What is another word for “expedient”?
Words with a similar meaning to “expedient” include advisable, desirable, judicious, politic, prudent and tactical.
What part of speech is “expedient”?
Depending on how it is used, “expedient” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “expedient” come from?
The word “expedient” comes from Latin. From Latin expediens, "advantageous," from expedire, "to make ready, be useful," from ex- ("out") plus pes ("foot") — the underlying image is of freeing the feet to move.
How many meanings does “expedient” have?
“Expedient” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: convenient and practical for achieving a goal, though not necessarily right or moral.