(~s)
1.
An ~ is an action that achieves a particular purpose, but may not be morally right.
Surgical waiting lists were reduced by the simple ~ of striking off all patients awaiting varicose vein operations...
N-COUNT: usu sing, oft N of -ing
2.
If it is ~ to do something, it is useful or convenient to do it, even though it may not be morally right.
Governments frequently ignore human rights abuses in other countries if it is politically ~ to do so.
ADJ: oft it v-link ADJ to-inf