expedient Meaning, Definition & Usage
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noun a means to an end; not necessarily a principled or ethical one
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adjective serving to promote your interest
- was merciful only when mercy was expedient
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adjective satellite appropriate to a purpose; practical
- in the circumstances it was expedient to express loyalty
WordNet
Ex*pe"di*ent adjective
Etymology
L.Definitions
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Hastening or forward; hence, tending to further or promote a proposed object; fit or proper under the circumstances; conducive to self-interest; desirable; advisable; advantageous; -- sometimes contradistinguished from right. It is expedient for you that I go away. John xvi. 7.
Nothing but the right can ever be expedient, since that can never be true expediency which would sacrifice a greater good to a less. Whately.
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Quick; expeditious. Obs.His marches are expedient to this town. Shak.
Ex*pe"di*ent noun
Definitions
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That which serves to promote or advance; suitable means to accomplish an end. What sure expedient than shall Juno find, To calm her fears and ease her boding mind? Philips.
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Means devised in an exigency; shift. Syn. -- Shift; contrivance; resource; substitute.