expedient means

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'expedient means' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a method or approach that is considered efficient or appropriate, usually given a particular set of circumstances or conditions. For example: "Given the tight deadline, we must find an expedient means of getting the project completed on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Putting a bit of separation from the bushland is the most expedient means of improving your odds of survival.

The New York Times

Care will also need to be taken not to confuse the self-schema that we will construct, as an expedient means of access, with our true Spiritual nature.

Yale University

Notice to be furnished "as soon as possible" under this paragraph shall be furnished by telephone, telegraph, facsimile, e-mail, overnight mail or other similar expedient means.

Cornell University

From the first immigrant landing in 1788 through the early decades of the 19th century, education was provided on an occasional and rather haphazard basis, by the most expedient means available.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This rallying cry for Islamic law, which is reduced to its most extreme measures, is an outgrowth of the rising role of religious identity, but it's also the most expedient means to terrify a population in the name of religion.

The Guardian - Opinion

Giving AIs the ability to read and understand stories may be the most expedient means of enculturing [them] so that they can better integrate themselves into human societies and contribute to our overall wellbeing," they conclude.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

To explain and underscore the use of principal component analysis in clinical biomechanics as an expedient, unbiased means for reducing high-dimensional data sets to a small number of modes or structures, as well as for teasing apart structural (invariant) and variable components in such data sets.

Clinical Biomechanics

This expedient approach means that many genes encoding proteins with uncharacterized functions may be disregarded as potential therapeutic or disease-preventive targets.

Plosone

It is therefore expedient to explore means of sufficiently reducing the radiation dose using commercially available high-pressure washing machines.

ROBOMECH Journal

The idea of hosshin seppô also expresses a universalization in Shingon of the Mahâyâna Buddhist notion of expedient (or: skillful) means.

SEP

Much suffering and evil, however, could be prevented by means of expedient political arrangements (Bolzano 1932, 3 f).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "expedient means", ensure that the approach is not only efficient but also ethically sound and does not compromise long-term goals for short-term gains.

Common error

Avoid using "expedient means" as a justification for cutting corners or neglecting important details. While efficiency is valuable, it should not come at the expense of quality or accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expedient means" primarily functions as an adjective-noun combination that modifies a course of action or a method. It indicates that the method is suitable and effective for achieving a particular purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expedient means" refers to a practical and efficient method for achieving a specific goal. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. It's most commonly found in News & Media, Academic, and Science contexts. While it emphasizes efficiency, it is crucial to ensure that the chosen approach is ethically sound and doesn't compromise long-term goals. Remember to consider alternatives like "suitable methods" or "efficient techniques" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

efficient techniques

Highlights the speed and resourcefulness of the methods used.

suitable methods

Focuses on the appropriateness of the method for the task at hand, rather than just its efficiency.

appropriate measures

Stresses the fittingness and correctness of the actions taken in a given situation.

effective strategies

Focuses on the success and impact of the methods in achieving a desired outcome.

practical approaches

Emphasizes the real-world applicability and workability of the methods.

convenient procedures

Highlights the ease and accessibility of the methods employed.

pragmatic solutions

Stresses the practicality and focus on achievable results of the chosen solutions.

advantageous ways

Focuses on the benefits and positive outcomes resulting from the methods.

useful avenues

Emphasizes the practicality and helpfulness of the methods in achieving a specific goal.

advisable tactics

Highlights the wisdom and prudence of the methods chosen.

FAQs

How can I use "expedient means" in a sentence?

You can use "expedient means" to describe a method that is practical and efficient for achieving a particular purpose. For example, "Given the limited resources, we had to find an "expedient means" of completing the project".

What are some alternatives to "expedient means"?

Some alternatives to "expedient means" include "practical approaches", "efficient techniques", or "suitable methods", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "expedient means"?

It is appropriate to use "expedient means" when you need to achieve a goal quickly and efficiently, especially when resources are limited or time is of the essence. However, consider the ethical implications.

What's the difference between "expedient means" and "convenient means"?

"Expedient means" implies efficiency and practicality in achieving a goal, while "convenient means" focuses on ease and comfort. Expediency might prioritize effectiveness, even if it's not the easiest option; convenience prioritizes ease, even if it's not the most effective.