opportunism

[op-er-too-niz-uhm, -tyoo-]

noun

1. the policy or practice, as in politics, business, or one's personal affairs, of adapting actions, decisions, etc., to expediency or effectiveness regardless of the sacrifice of ethical principles.

2. action or judgment in accordance with this policy.

Other Word Forms

• opportunist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of opportunism¹

1865–70; < Italian opportunismo, equivalent to opportun ( o ) (< Latin opportūnus; opportune ) + -ismo -ism

Example Sentences

The central figure is Renia, from Poland, played with innumerable nuances, as her character evolves from naiveté to ruthless opportunism, by the off-Broadway stalwart Marin Ireland.

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It is a story of opportunism and entrepreneurship.

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But some Senators, hoping to curry favor, may start to echo the President’s short-term opportunism.

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The fund employs a similar mix of caution and opportunism in its bond portfolio.

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“There is conviction” among leaders of defense startups, rather than just opportunism, said Sten Tamkivi, an Estonian serial entrepreneur and partner in early-stage fund Plural Platform, which is investing in the sector.

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