expedient 1 of 2

Definition of expedientnext

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

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
Tolbert suggested, and Bibb concurred, that the most expedient course would be for the Wings to take over the project’s development. Brad Townsend, Dallas Morning News, 15 Jan. 2026 For Mesa Grande, the use of these technologies could provide more expedient access to health care, goods movement options and more, while creating new pathways for workforce development, education and transportation. Curtis V La Chusa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Dec. 2025
Noun
Trump’s handling of Venezuela reinforced a deep Iranian fear that Western powers ultimately favor expedient deals with authoritarian regimes over real democratic change. Dan Bilefsky, HollywoodReporter, 21 Jan. 2026 Tolbert suggested, and Bibb concurred, that the most expedient course would be for the Wings to take over the project’s development. Brad Townsend, Dallas Morning News, 15 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for expedient
Recent Examples of Synonyms for expedient
Adjective
  • Extra points Eric Musselman will need to be more prudent in the transfer portal.
    Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Congress enacted a good-faith and largely prudent updating of Social Security.
    Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 5 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Students — too young to know her career — treated her like any other substitute.
    Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 8 Apr. 2026
  • The charismatic presence of both the leading and supporting actors doesn’t so much fill out the personalities as substitute for them.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 7 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • McLeod also emphasized the urgency of incorporating and said that many people get the wrong message about what becoming a city means.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 7 Apr. 2026
  • Luna himself has acknowledged never finding any, and department policy has always provided for the means to discipline and terminate any employee who engages in behavior that harms the public, fellow employees, or is otherwise prohibited by law.
    Opinion Staff, Daily News, 5 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Shifting the Hornets’ mentality Charlotte heads into the final weekend of the 2025-26 regular-season calendar, semi ahead of schedule with an opportunity to make some noise in the postseason for the first time in a decade.
    Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Strategic opportunity, legal risk Environmental groups say the risks extend beyond criminal financing to broader ecological destruction if foreign investment accelerates extraction.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Pangan, 28, who lives in Torrance, felt confused that her friend who lives in Orange County was able to get desirable cheap tickets for swimming, track and tennis.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2026
  • In the case of the Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE, that blend starts at $75,200, and easily approaches $100,000 if one adds all of the desirable amenities.
    John Scott Lewinski, Robb Report, 8 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Members of the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) hailed the legislation as a measure to ensure institutional stability.
    ABC News, ABC News, 5 Apr. 2026
  • As the MorphoScan measures and calculates, a voice will pipe up offering guidance and progress reports.
    Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 5 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Steve founded the firm in 1993, following a dispute in which families sought legal recourse after children became seriously ill from contaminated fast food.
    Nia Bowers, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
  • The bill, if enacted in its current draft, could also give the state and project operators the power to regulate underground transit systems, leaving municipalities like Nashville with little recourse to address fires or other emergencies, and workplace safety or pollution concerns.
    Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 26 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The Reds have been a pleasant surprise in the Eastern Conference of MLS and are comfortably in the mix of top east teams, standings wise.
    Braidon Nourse, Denver Post, 4 Apr. 2026
  • Flavor-wise, both the Molten Lava Cake and Strawberry Burst were pleasant, but less singularly memorable than the Cinnamon Caramel Pop-Tart.
    Joseph Erbentraut, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Expedient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expedient. Accessed 10 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on expedient

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster