n.
Pronunciation: ik- ' sp ē -d ē - ə nt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French or Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin expedient-, expendiens, present participle of expedire to extricate, prepare, be useful, from ex- + ped-, pes foot ― more at FOOT
Date: 14th century
1 : suitable for achieving a particular end in a given circumstance
2 : characterized by concern with what is opportune especially : governed by self-interest
– ex · pe · di · ent · ly adverb
synonyms EXPEDIENT , POLITIC , ADVISABLE mean dictated by practical or prudent motives. EXPEDIENT usually implies what is immediately advantageous without regard for ethics or consistent principles <a politically expedient decision>. POLITIC stresses judiciousness and tactical value but usually 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>.