French word

expédient

Pronunciation

IPA/ɛkspedjɑ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine nountemporary fix

Example

C'est un expédient, mais ça ira pour l'instant.

It's a temporary fix, but it'll do for now.

Illustration for expédient (temporary fix)

More examples

Ils se sont contentés d'un expédient en attendant la réparation.

They settled for a stopgap while waiting for the repair.

Core concept

A makeshift fix that fills the gap for the moment while leaving a better solution for later.

Common phrases

  • se contenter d'un expédient

    settle for a stopgap

  • trouver un expédient

    find a stopgap

Similar words

solution: A clear method or answer for solving a problem.
moyen: A method or resource used to achieve a goal.
astuce: A clever fix or tip for quickly handling a difficulty.
truc: An informal, simple way or trick to get past a problem.

Definition in French

Moyen provisoire ou solution rapide employé pour dépanner, utile sur le moment mais pas forcément idéal à long terme.

Word origin

The French noun derives from Latin expediens through Old French, with expedire referring to making something manageable or removing an obstacle.

Usage tips

  • Expédient is relatively formal and often suggests a critical view because the measure is useful but not a lasting solution.

Other meanings

  • stopgapnoun

Opposites

  • solution à long termelong-term solutionnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word