opportunistic — taking advantage of circumstances with little regard for principles or consequences
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: taking advantage of circumstances with little regard for principles or consequences
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌɑːpərtuːˈnɪstɪk/
Example Sentences
- The cat showed opportunistic behavior by stealing food whenever the owner left the kitchen.
- His opportunistic career moves helped him climb the corporate ladder quickly.
- The opportunistic salesman sold umbrellas when it rained and sunglasses when it was sunny.
opportunistic
ADJECTIVE[/ˌɑːpərtuːˈnɪstɪk/]
taking advantage of circumstances with little regard for principles or consequences
The opportunistic seagull swoops down the second the tourist looks away from his fries.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'opportunus' meaning 'suitable' or 'fit,' derived from 'ob-' (toward) and 'portus' (port/harbor), originally referring to favorable wind and tide conditions. The suffix '-istic' was added to create the adjective form meaning 'characterized by taking advantage of opportunities.'
Breakdown
opportun- (from Latin opportunus, suitable) + -ist (one who practices) + -ic (adjective suffix) = opportunistic
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The cat showed opportunistic behavior by stealing food whenever the owner left the kitchen.”
“His opportunistic career moves helped him climb the corporate ladder quickly.”
“The opportunistic salesman sold umbrellas when it rained and sunglasses when it was sunny.”
“Opportunistic investors often profit during economic uncertainty.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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