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 Words From

• oppor·tunist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of opportunism¹

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