[ex.pe.di.ent] adj [ME, fr. MF or L; MF, fr. L expedient-, expendiens, prp. of expedire to extricate, prepare, be useful, fr. ex- + ped-, pes foot--more at foot] (14c) 1: suitable for achieving a particular end in a given circumstance
2: characterized by concern with what is opportune; esp: governed by self-interest -- ex.pe.di.ent.ly adv syn expedient, politic, advisable mean dictated by practical or prudent motives. expedient usu. implies what is immediately advantageous without regard for ethics or consistent principles "a politically expedient decision". politic stresses judiciousness and tactical value but usu. implies some lack of candor or sincerity "a politic show of interest". advisable applies to what is practical, prudent, or advantageous but lacks the derogatory implication of expedient and politic "sometimes it's advisable to say nothing".
[2]expedient n (1653): something expedient: a temporary means to an end syn see resource