Langimage
English

expediency

|ex-pe-di-en-cy|

C1

/ɪkˈspiːdiənsi/

practical convenience

Etymology
Etymology Information

'expediency' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'expedientia,' where 'expedire' meant 'to free, disengage.'

Historical Evolution

'expedientia' transformed into the French word 'expédience,' and eventually became the modern English word 'expediency' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to free or disengage,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'convenience or practicality.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the quality of being convenient and practical despite possibly being improper or immoral; convenience.

The expediency of the decision was questioned by many.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45