The expression be convenient for is a collocation consisting of the linking verb "be," the adjective "convenient," and the preposition "for." It describes a situation, time, location, or object that is suitable, easy to use, or fits well into someone's plans or needs without causing trouble.
The meaning is compositional, as the definition arises naturally from the individual words. However, it often carries a semi-idiomatic nuance in political or social contexts, where it can imply that a certain narrative or outcome is "expedient" or beneficial for a specific party, sometimes at the expense of the truth. The register is neutral to formal, making it equally appropriate for casual conversation, business correspondence, and academic writing.
These examples are sourced from be convenient for on Ludwig.guru.
"This may be convenient for the political leaders themselves." — economist.com
"In your next letter, please say when it shall be convenient for you." — nytimes.com
"The solution (routes and frequencies) should be convenient for the users and the operators." — sciencedirect.com
"Not only does it need to be convenient for the customer; it also needs to be socially responsible." — theguardian.com
"The technique used is evaluated by a factorial design of validation that proved to be convenient for routine drug monitoring." — sciencedirect.com
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| suit | A more concise verb that is often interchangeable (e.g., "that suits me"). |
| be appropriate for | Higher formality; focuses on correctness or fitness rather than just ease. |
| be handy for | More informal; often used for physical tools or nearby locations. |
| be conducive to | Academic/Formal; implies that something helps a specific result happen. |
| fit in with | Phrasal verb; used when something aligns well with a schedule or plan. |
| Expression | Meaning | Grammatical Pattern | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| be convenient for | To be suitable or easy for a specific person or purpose. | [Subject] + be + convenient for + [Object] | Neutral / Formal |
Yes, you can insert adverbs of degree or frequency between the verb and the adjective to add emphasis. For example, a situation can be especially convenient for someone or be no longer convenient for them.
While be convenient for focuses on the ease, timing, or lack of effort required, be suitable for emphasizes whether something is appropriate or right for a particular purpose. You might choose a hotel because it is convenient for the airport, but choose a dress because it is suitable for a wedding.
No, you should avoid using a person as the subject of be convenient. Learners often incorrectly use 'be convenient' with a person as the subject (e.g., 'I am convenient' instead of 'It is convenient for me'); instead, use "it" as a dummy subject or name the specific time or event.
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