1.
convenience, expediency
The quality of being convenient or practical. Often used in the phrase 便宜上 (for convenience's sake).
便宜上、AとBに分ける。
For convenience, we divide them into A and B.
便宜上、この名前を使う。
For the sake of convenience, we'll use this name.
説明の便宜上、簡単な例を使って話します。
For the convenience of explanation, I'll speak using a simple example.
2.
special accommodation, favorable treatment
Giving someone special treatment or making an exception for their benefit.
便宜を図る。
To arrange special accommodation.
知人に便宜を図った。
I arranged favorable treatment for an acquaintance.
公務員が特定の業者に便宜を図ったとして問題になった。
It became a problem when a public servant was found to have given special treatment to a specific contractor.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 便宜上 (for convenience's sake — very common set phrase)
- 便宜を図る (to arrange accommodation/favorable treatment)
- 便宜を供与する (to provide accommodation — formal/legal)
USAGE:
Sense 1 (便宜上) is neutral and widely used in academic, business, and everyday contexts. Sense 2 (便宜を図る) often appears in news about favoritism or corruption, though it can also be used innocently.
CAUTION:
Do not confuse with 便利 (convenient). 便宜 is more about expediency or special treatment, while 便利 describes general usefulness.