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Expedience: meaning, definitions and examples

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expedience

 

[ ɪkˈspiːdiəns ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

practical advantage

Expedience refers to the quality of being advantageous or convenient, often in a way that may disregard principles or ethics. It implies a focus on the usefulness of an action in achieving a specific goal rather than on the moral or ethical considerations associated with it. This term is often used in discussions about decision-making and behavior in both personal and professional contexts. The concept is closely related to notions of efficiency, pragmatism, and utilitarianism.

Synonyms

advantage, convenience, pragmatism, utility.

Examples of usage

  • The expedience of the decision was praised despite its ethical implications.
  • Choosing expedience over integrity can lead to long-term consequences.
  • In politics, expedience often trumps idealism.

Translations

Translations of the word "expedience" in other languages:

🇵🇹 oportunidade

🇮🇳 उपयुक्तता

🇩🇪 Zweckmäßigkeit

🇮🇩 kecermatan

🇺🇦 доцільність

🇵🇱 celowość

🇯🇵 適切さ

🇫🇷 opportunité

🇪🇸 oportunidad

🇹🇷 uygunluk

🇰🇷 적절함

🇸🇦 ملاءمة

🇨🇿 účelnost

🇸🇰 účelnosť

🇨🇳 适宜性

🇸🇮 primernost

🇮🇸 notkun

🇰🇿 тиімділік

🇬🇪 შესაბამისობა

🇦🇿 uyğunluq

🇲🇽 oportunidad

Etymology

The term 'expedience' originates from the Latin word 'expedientia', which means 'a bringing forward' or 'advantageous'. It evolved through Middle English, entering usage in the 15th century, carrying connotations of being suitable or advantageous in particular circumstances. Historically, it has often been applied within political and ethical discussions, highlighting the tension between what is practical and what is morally right. As societies grapple with complex issues, the term has become more relevant, often illustrating the pragmatic choices that individuals and organizations face. Its use today underscores an ongoing debate regarding the balance between efficiency and ethical standards in various fields.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,298 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.