opportunity

[ op-er-too-ni-tee, -tyoo- ]

noun

, plural op·por·tu·ni·ties.

1. an appropriate or favorable time or occasion:

   Their meeting afforded an opportunity to exchange views.

2. a situation or condition favorable for attainment of a goal.
3. a good position, chance, or prospect, as for advancement or success.

opportunity

/ ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪtɪ /

noun

1. a favourable, appropriate, or advantageous combination of circumstances
2. a chance or prospect

Word History and Origins

Origin of opportunity¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English opportunite, from Middle French, from Latin opportūnitās “convenience, fitness,” equivalent to opportūn(us) ( opportune ) + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

"I think that there were many opportunities that the school had to be able to realise that this man is an abuser and a groomer, and I feel like they ignored that."

From BBC

In addition, the Bureau of Prisons will restore early release credits to FCI Dublin transfers and expunge invalid disciplinary write-ups by Dublin staff to ensure class members don’t lose opportunities for early release.

From Los Angeles Times

While Mahama told supporters "it is a choice between the Ghana we have today and the Ghana we want together. A Ghana of opportunity, prosperity, and justice for all."

From BBC

"It was a wonderful opportunity for two relatively ordinary blokes to be in extraordinary circumstances, being a conduit of other people's stories from around the world," he adds.

From BBC

Shifting attitudes towards working from home are seen by many as good for work/life balance, but spending less time with colleagues can also mean less opportunity to meet new people.

From BBC

Related Words

• convenience
• event
• excuse
• freedom
• hope
• moment
• space
• time