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.
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.