online vocabulary.com

Opportunist - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An opportunist is someone who takes advantage of situations for personal gain, often without regard for principles or consequences. They act when chances arise to benefit themselves.

opportunist

/ˌɑpərˈtunɪst/ /ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪst/

Definition:

Someone who takes advantage of situations for personal gain, often unethically.

Synonyms:

exploiter, schemer, self-seeker, chancer

Part of Speech:

noun, adjective

Antonyms:

altruist, principled person

Common Collocations:

political opportunist, seize the opportunity, opportunistic behavior

Derivatives:

opportunism, opportunistic

Usage Tips:

Use "opportunist" to describe someone exploiting circumstances selfishly; avoid confusion with "optimist."

Common Phrases:

strike while the iron is hot, make hay while the sun shines

Etymology:

From Latin *opportunus* ("favorable") + *-ist*, meaning one who acts on favorable chances.

Examples:

  • 1. He’s an opportunist who always profits from others’ misfortunes.
  • 2. The politician was accused of being an opportunist during the crisis.
  • 3. She took the job not out of passion but as an opportunist move.
  • 4. Opportunists thrive in unstable environments where rules are unclear.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS