the end justifies the means; a lie can be expedient
Proverb meaning that in some situations, telling a lie may be acceptable if it serves a greater good or practical purpose. Often used to justify small, harmless lies.
To encourage her, I told her it was okay, thinking that a lie can be expedient.
Sometimes a lie is the best policy, and not telling the truth can be kinder.
Standard kanji spelling for this proverb.
Mixed kana-kanji spelling; common in everyday writing.
A set phrase combining 嘘 (lie) with 方便 (expedient means, originally a Buddhist term for skillful means). The exact origin is uncertain, but it reflects the idea that a lie can be a practical tool.