opportunism

noun
UK: /ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪzəm/
US: /ˌɑːpərˈtuːnɪzəm/

  1. The practice of taking advantage of opportunities without regard for morals or principles.

    1. His opportunism helped him succeed.
    2. The politician's opportunism was criticized for lacking real conviction and shifting positions based on popular opinion.

  2. The policy or practice of exploiting circumstances to gain immediate advantage rather than adhering to long-term principles or plans.

    1. She saw his opportunism in action.
    2. The company's short-sighted opportunism led to a decline in customer loyalty and long-term profitability.

  3. The adaptation of a cell or organism to its environment, especially by altering its metabolic processes.

    1. Microbial opportunism is a concern.
    2. The opportunism displayed by certain bacteria allows them to thrive in diverse and often hostile environments.

Synonyms

self-interest expediency pragmatism chicanery exploitation

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "opportunism" in English means: The practice of taking advantage of opportunities without regard for morals or principles., The policy or practice of exploiting circumstances to gain immediate advantage rather than adhering to long-term principles or plans., The adaptation of a cell or organism to its environment, especially by altering its metabolic processes..

The phonetic transcription of "opportunism" is /ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪzəm/ in British English and /ˌɑːpərˈtuːnɪzəm/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "opportunism": self-interest, expediency, pragmatism, chicanery, exploitation.

Example usage of "opportunism": "His opportunism helped him succeed.". More examples on the page.