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
In this way, the film becomes a manifesto for alternate destinies within the Black experience, and a semi-formal goodbye letter to the delusional but politically expedient optimism of the 2010s, wherein the end of the neoliberal order becomes a gateway to renewed self-possession and agency. Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2026 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
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
  • However, Arrington also chairs a committee that has continually advocated for prudent and effective spending and fiscal reform.
    Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 14 Apr. 2026
  • For buyers and homeowners weighing their options, the prudent move is to compare lenders, lock in a rate if the numbers work for your situation and resist the temptation to time a market that's proven nearly impossible to predict this spring.
    Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Resident teachers, or teachers in training, will be the substitutes.
    Lacey Beasley, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Those patterns suggest that, at least so far, AI has acted as a productivity-enhancing tool that boosts employment and wages rather than a simple substitute for labor.
    Christos Makridis, The Conversation, 14 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • California is not unique, and housing is not the only means by which the older generations have effectively pulled up the ladder behind them.
    Idrees Kahloon, The Atlantic, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Which is fortunate for Musselman, given there will be less means to lure players from the portal.
    Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Independent Alan Bond's platform The Montclair resident is focused on economic opportunity, education, healthcare and safety, according to his campaign website.
    Christina Fan, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Orlando was able to respond late thanks to six straight points from Bane, including his second 3-pointer and an and-one opportunity.
    Jason Beede, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Like Stella, Krasner was neither a one-decade painter nor the maker of a handful of desirable canvases from a single decade or two.
    Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Now, Massés fans can look forward to the return of the beloved watering hole, following its closure in February, in a desirable new location in the heart of downtown Walnut Creek.
    Martha Ross, Mercury News, 14 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The list of measures in the statement touches on ties that China had suspended in recent years as tensions increased.
    ABC News, ABC News, 12 Apr. 2026
  • He’s been limited throughout camp as a precautionary measure, according to Frost.
    Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The military had recourse to Claude via a drop-down menu in a workflow package, the Maven Smart System, which gathers, synthesizes, and streamlines intelligence.
    Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 15 Apr. 2026
  • At that point without recourse.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Diaz-Balart of Miami is among the Republicans now doubting redistricting is wise.
    Jeffrey Schweers, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2026
  • David Schulte had helped other cities remove terrain and encourage water-wise sod installations, like a Tahoma 31 Bermuda grass blend.
    Gabriela Vidal, CBS News, 10 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Expedient.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/expedient. Accessed 19 Apr. 2026.

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