English Reference
adjective

convenient

adj.
US /kənˈvinjənt/ UK /kənvˈiːnɪənt/ con·ve·nient

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    useful because it saves you time or effort.

    fitting in well with a person's needs, activities, and plans; saving time or effort.

    Simple

    A microwave is very convenient when you are in a hurry to eat.

    In context

    The new software provides a convenient way for remote teams to collaborate without needing to sync their schedules manually.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'for' to indicate the person who benefits.

    Pitfall
    It is convenient for me that you come. It is convenient for me if you come.

    When 'convenient' describes a situation, it is often followed by 'if' or 'to' rather than a 'that' clause.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    located in a place that is easy to reach.

    situated within easy reach; accessible with minimum difficulty.

    Simple

    The hotel is very convenient for the train station.

    In context

    Living in the city centre is convenient for the shops, though the noise from the street can be quite disruptive at night.

    Usage

    Frequently followed by 'for' plus a location or destination.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Informal

    happening at a time that is almost too perfect for someone, making you doubt them.

    occurring at a time or in a way that is suspiciously beneficial to a particular person.

    Simple

    It was very convenient that he lost the receipt just when I asked for a refund.

    In context

    The witness suddenly developed a convenient case of amnesia as soon as the prosecutor began asking about the missing funds.

    Usage

    Often used with a sarcastic or skeptical tone.

    Teacher's tip

    This sense often implies that someone is lying or manipulating a situation for their own benefit.


From Middle English convenient, from Latin conveniens (“fit, suitable, convenient”), present participle of convenire (“to come together, suit”); see convene and compare covenant.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin Latin conveniens
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated