noun
General term for a method or tool used to achieve a goal, often with a pragmatic or strategic nuance. Can imply a temporary or clever measure.
彼は目的のためには方便を選ばない。
He will use any means to achieve his goal.
それは単なる方便に過ぎない。
That's nothing more than an expedient.
noun
upaya; skillful means
Buddhist term for a teaching method adapted to the listener's capacity, often translated as 'skillful means' or 'expedient means'.
仏教では、方便は悟りへ導くための巧みな教え方を指す。
In Buddhism, upaya refers to a skillful method of teaching that leads to enlightenment.