opportunistic

[op-er-too-nis-tik, -tyoo-]

adjective

1. adhering to a policy of opportunism; practicing opportunism.

2. Pathology.

   1. (of a microorganism) causing disease only under certain conditions, as when a person's immune system is impaired.

   2. (of a disease or infection) caused by such an organism.

      Pneumocystis pneumonia is an opportunistic disease that often strikes victims of AIDS.

opportunistic

/ ˌɒpətjʊˈnɪstɪk /

adjective

1. of or characterized by opportunism

2. med (of an infection) caused by any microorganism that is harmless to a healthy person but debilitates a person whose immune system has been weakened by disease or drug treatment

Other Word Forms

• opportunistically adverb
• unopportunistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of opportunistic¹

First recorded in 1890–95; opportunist + -ic

Example Sentences

The Bears have been opportunistic, especially late in games, but that formula could hit a wall against a defense that’s as problematic as Philadelphia’s.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

After Sinclair’s disclosure, Scripps said its board would “take all steps appropriate to protect the company and the company’s shareholders from the opportunistic actions of Sinclair or anyone else.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

His statements could have "inadvertently instigated or emboldened opportunistic armed groups that are seeking to exploit international narratives by attacking soft targets", Obasi said.

Read more on Barron's

Scripps’ board will evaluate offers but warns against opportunistic actions by Sinclair.

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Nonetheless, StarHub’s strong balance sheet is likely to hold up its dividends and allow opportunistic acquisitions, the analysts note.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• cosmopolitan 
• hardened 
• practical 
• selfish 
• urbane