expediency

noun

ex·​pe·​di·​en·​cy ik-ˈspē-dē-ən(t)-sē How to pronounce expediency (audio)
plural expediencies
1
: the quality or state of being suited to the end in view : suitability, fitness
2
obsolete
b
: an enterprise requiring haste or caution
3
: adherence to expedient means and methods
put more emphasis on expediency than on principleW. H. Jones
4
: a means of achieving a particular end : expedient
expediential adjective

Examples of expediency in a Sentence

the expediency of such a plan is questionable
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
From bailing out financial institutions in 2008 to funding government stimulus programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fed has consistently prioritized political expediency over economic fundamentals. Dave Birnbaum, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025 If Netanyahu chooses political expediency, then Trump can kiss his Abraham Accords dreams goodbye. John Yoo and John Shu, Newsweek, 23 Jan. 2025 By working across the aisle to develop thoughtful, balanced school choice policies for kids and families, Democrats can signal their first move toward a more centrist party that values working-class families over political expediency. Juan Rangel, Twin Cities, 22 Jan. 2025 Still, perhaps out of expediency or perhaps because Trump’s eldest son dated the Governor’s ex-wife and former San Fran First Lady Kimberly Guilfoyle for many years, the two men had a few congenial moments. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 8 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for expediency 

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expediency was in 1597

Dictionary Entries Near expediency

Cite this Entry

“Expediency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expediency. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

expediency

noun
ex·​pe·​di·​en·​cy ik-ˈspēd-ē-ən-sē How to pronounce expediency (audio)
plural expediencies
: the use of expedient means and methods

More from Merriam-Webster on expediency

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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