What does expedient mean?
Expedient functions as both a noun and an adjective in English. As a noun, it refers to a means of accomplishing something — particularly a device, measure, or resource adopted because it serves the purpose at hand, often when better options are unavailable. As an adjective, it describes an action or choice that is convenient and practical under the circumstances, frequently with the implication that it may fall short of what is right or principled. The phrase 'political expediency' captures this tension well: decisions made because they are useful rather than because they are just. The word derives from the Latin expedire, meaning to disentangle or set free, literally 'to free the feet.' While its neutral sense — simply practical or advisable — remains current, modern usage often carries a subtle criticism, suggesting short-term advantage won at the expense of integrity. It remains a precise and valuable term for discussing pragmatic compromise.
A means of attaining an end, especially one that is convenient but possibly improper or immoral.
"He resorted to the expedient of borrowing from his rival to cover the debt."
Often used with a negative connotation, suggesting a stopgap or morally questionable solution.
(Of an action) convenient and practical, although possibly improper or immoral; also, more neutrally, appropriate or suitable to a purpose.
"It was expedient for her to remain silent about the deal until after the election."
Frequently carries a suggestion of self-interest or compromise of principles.
The plural refers to multiple means or measures adopted to achieve ends, often with a similar connotation of pragmatism over principle.
"The administration tried various expedients to balance the budget before raising taxes."
The word 'expedient' comes from the Latin for 'to free one's feet' — literally to get unstuck — yet today it often implies doing the morally slippery thing just to move forward.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of expedient
Expedient derives from the Latin verb expedire, meaning 'to free from entanglement' or 'to make ready,' literally 'to free the feet' (from ex- 'out' and pes/pedis 'foot'). It entered English via Latin expedient-, the present participle stem of expedire, appearing in English around the late 16th century in both adjectival and nominal senses. Cognates sharing this Latin root include expedition, expedite, and impede (from the related verb pedire, 'to shackle the feet').
Related word forms
How expedient is actually used
The word often carries a pejorative connotation, implying that the action taken prioritizes convenience or advantage over principle or ethics. In more neutral contexts it simply means practical or suitable.
Easily confused with expedient
Expedite is a verb meaning to speed up a process, while expedient as an adjective means convenient or practical, and as a noun means a means to an end.
Expeditious means done quickly and efficiently, whereas expedient means convenient or advantageous, often with a hint of self-interest.