What does opportunity mean?
An opportunity is a chance to do something, especially something beneficial, useful, or likely to lead to success. The word often suggests that the chance is not only possible but favorable or available to the person concerned: an opportunity to apply for a job, learn a skill, travel, or contribute to a project. In employment and social policy, the plural opportunities is especially common when discussing access to work, education, or advancement. An opportunity can also be a broader circumstance that makes action possible, such as a technological development creating opportunities for innovation. The term is generally neutral, although its association with personal benefit can sometimes imply that the person is expected or able to make good use of the chance. It is distinct from an occasion, which is primarily a particular event or time, and from a prospect, which focuses more on a possible future outcome.
nounA chance or possibility that allows someone to do something beneficial or worthwhile. It can also refer to a favorable situation in which progress, success, or advantage becomes possible.
- A favorable chance to do something, achieve a result, or gain an advantage.
- A situation in which action, development, or success becomes possible.
- A possibility for employment, advancement, or economic benefit.
"The new position provided an excellent opportunity to work with an international team."
"Learning a second language can create opportunities for meaningful cross-cultural contact."
"The decline of a particular industry may create new opportunities in regional development."
The regular plural adds “-ies” and changes the medial “y” to “i.” It is especially common in discussions of employment, education, and advancement.
"The program gives graduates access to valuable career opportunities."
The word comes from the Latin opportunus, meaning “well-timed”: an opportunity is, quite literally, a chance that arrives at the right moment.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does opportunity come from?
The word comes through French from the Latin opportunitas, derived from opportunus, “well-timed” or “suitable.” The root combines op- with portunus, related to portare, “to carry,” and the idea was originally of a moment that was favorable or convenient for an undertaking. English borrowed the noun in the 14th century, and related forms include opportune, importune, and opportunism. The same Latin root also underlies words associated with timing and suitability.
Related word forms
How opportunity is actually used
Generally neutral and widely used. In formal and economic contexts, it can refer to the availability of a favorable chance; in some educational and employment contexts, it emphasizes advancement or access. “Opportunity cost” is a technical economic term for the value of the best alternative forgone when a choice is made.
Easily confused with opportunity
An opportunity is a favorable chance to act or benefit, whereas an occasion is a particular event or time, whether favorable or not.
An opportunity is an available chance that can be taken now, while a prospect is a possibility or expectation of future success.