1 definition found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.44 [gcide]:

Opportunity \Op'por*tu"ni*ty\, noun; pl. {Opportunities}. [F. opportunit['e], L. opportunitas. See {Opportune}.]

1. Fit or convenient time or situation; a time or place permitting or favorable for the execution of a purpose; a suitable combination of conditions; suitable occasion; chance. [1913 Webster +PJC]

A wise man will make more opportunities than he finds. --Bacon.

2. Convenience of situation; fitness. [Obs.]

Hull, a town of great strength and opportunity, both to sea and land affairs. --Milton.

3. Importunity; earnestness. [Obs.] --Jer. Taylor.

Syn: Occasion; convenience; occurrence.

Usage: {Opportunity}, {Occasion}. An occasion is that which falls in our way, or presents itself in the course of events; an opportunity is a convenience or fitness of time, place, etc., for the doing of a thing. Hence, occasions often make opportunities. The occasion of sickness may give opportunity for reflection.
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