opportunism

[ op-er-too-niz-uhm, -tyoo- ]
/ ˌɒp ərˈtu nɪz əm, -ˈtyu- /
SEE SYNONYMS FOR opportunism ON THESAURUS.COM

noun

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.
action or judgment in accordance with this policy.

QUIZZES

DON’T VACILLATE! VANQUISH THIS WORD OF THE DAY QUIZ!

It’d be a real faux pas to miss this quiz on the words from August 3–9, 2020!
Question 1 of 7
What does “vacillate” mean?
to waver in mind or opinion; be indecisive or irresolute.
to cause to be empty or unoccupied.
to assent tacitly; agree; consent.
TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Origin of opportunism

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

OTHER WORDS FROM opportunism

op·por·tun·ist, noun

Words nearby opportunism

oppilate, oppo, opponency, opponent, opportune, opportunism, opportunist, opportunistic, opportunistic infection, opportunity, opportunity cost
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2020

Words related to opportunism

advantage, timeliness, exploitation, opportunity, advantageousness, expedience

Example sentences from the Web for opportunism