Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

opportunity

American  
[op-er-too-ni-tee, -tyoo-] / ˌɒp ərˈtu nɪ ti, -ˈtyu- /

noun

plural

opportunities
  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 British  
/ ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪtɪ /

noun

  1. a favourable, appropriate, or advantageous combination of circumstances

  2. a chance or prospect

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of opportunity

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

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He jumped on opportunities to sell services and gear needed by companies racing to adapt to the internet age, such as computer servers, data-storage devices and database software.

From The Wall Street Journal

He also said official recognition would be "a great opportunity for expanding" the countries' partnership.

From BBC

And whenever I get an opportunity to play in L.A., it’s usually because someone asked me to, I guess you could say modest or I’m just humble.

From Los Angeles Times

Shareholders’ disappointment over the latest delay creates a buying opportunity in Take-Two stock, according to Benchmark’s Mike Hickey.

From Barron's

Use the approach of the new year as an opportunity to examine your financial life and address any areas that need attention.

From MarketWatch