expedient 1 of 2

expedient

2 of 2

noun

1
as in substitute
a temporary replacement if you're a spectator caught without rainwear at a sporting event, then a plastic garbage bag makes an acceptable, if unfashionable, expedient

Synonyms & Similar Words

2
3
as in opportunity
something that one uses to accomplish an end especially when the usual means is not available since there wasn't a single bandage left in our backpacks, we had to use a bandanna, our only expedient

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word expedient distinct from other similar adjectives?

The words advisable and politic are common synonyms of expedient. While all three words 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

How is advisable related to other words for expedient?

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

When could politic be used to replace expedient?

While in some cases nearly identical to expedient, politic stresses judiciousness and tactical value but usually implies some lack of candor or sincerity.

a politic show of interest

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of expedient
Adjective
Firing all probationary employees—which is the most expedient way to reduce the size of government—is a blunt instrument. Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 19 Feb. 2025 The United States can also develop transient but expedient partnerships with democratic and nondemocratic states alike, particularly those that fear dominance by assertive regional powers. Mira Rapp-Hooper, Foreign Affairs, 16 Apr. 2019
Noun
Yet many districts still prioritize simplistic, politically expedient metrics over nuanced analysis. Scott White, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025 Lawmakers might find it more expedient to write clearer statutes. Marie Sapirie, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for expedient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expedient
Adjective
  • Washington State's prudent financial governance stands in stark contrast to Washington DC's struggle with fiscal discipline.
    Robert Daugherty, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
  • In each case, Simon stresses that best-available player not only is the safest approach but also the most prudent.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • The information provided here is not legal advice and does not purport to be a substitute for advice of counsel on any specific matter.
    Jonathan Carson, Forbes.com, 27 May 2025
  • The time allocated could not be a substitute for instructional time.
    Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 May 2025
Noun
  • Riley took the opportunity to ask Pitt about the 8-year-long legal battle after his ex-wife, actress Angelina Jolie, first filed for divorce on Sept. 20, 2016.
    Sara Vallone, Miami Herald, 28 May 2025
  • That’s not just a number — that’s more teachers in classrooms, more help for struggling students and more opportunities for success.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • There is no obvious spot for two more games on the opening weekend that would provide a desirable, exclusive TV window.
    Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 21 May 2025
  • Dear Liz: My husband and I built a home on a hillside over 30 years ago in a desirable neighborhood with a beautiful view.
    Liz Weston, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 May 2025
Noun
  • The square table measures 40.5 inches on all four sides and has a hole in the center for an umbrella (which isn’t included).
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 26 May 2025
  • The measure of these wars, as with all the wars this nation has fought, will be taken by the children.
    New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 26 May 2025
Noun
  • Federal labor law generally does not allow workers to sue for violations in court, so the board is often their only recourse.
    John Kruzel, USA Today, 23 May 2025
  • Weaver’s family is now left with nearly $1 million in medical bills and little recourse because the teen did not have insurance, CBS reported.
    Katie Langford, Denver Post, 17 May 2025
Adjective
  • The one that was pretty impactful for me at Cannes, at least life trajectory wise, probably more impactful than all of those other films, came in 2012.
    Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 18 May 2025
  • If not, while national security, stability, and local shipbuilding growth are important, adding levies to tariffs this year may not be wise.
    Phillip Molnar, Mercury News, 16 May 2025
Noun
  • With the funds still not included in the government’s enacted fiscal 2025 stopgap, D.C.
    Jack Birle, The Washington Examiner, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Critics say, however, that the stopgap bill does not affect long-term funding challenges for these programs.
    Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Expedient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expedient. Accessed 1 Jun. 2025.

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