expedient
Convenient and practical, though possibly improper or morally questionable; a means of achieving something quickly.
Examples
In a meeting
“The expedient choice is to patch the bug now and refactor later.”
Over coffee
“Taking a cab is more expedient than waiting for the bus in this weather.”
Why this word
convenient
expedient implies practical advantage often at the expense of ethics, while convenient merely suggests ease
useful
expedient emphasizes immediate self-interest in a particular situation, while useful is more neutral and general
practical
expedient suggests choosing based on advantage rather than principle, while practical focuses on functionality
Usage tip
Can be neutral (practical choice) or slightly negative (cutting corners). Context determines the tone. Different from 'expedite' which is always positive.
Etymology
Latin expediens — ex (out) + pes/pedis (foot), literally 'freeing the feet' — same root as 'expedite'
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Related words
evaluate
To assess or judge the value, quality, or significance of something.
discern
To perceive or recognize a subtle difference or hidden truth.
defer
To postpone something to a later time, or to yield to someone else's judgment.
authorize
To give official permission or approval for something
reconsider
Think about a decision or opinion again with the possibility of changing it
arbitrary
Based on random choice rather than reason or system