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opportunist

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "opportunist": An opportunist is someone who takes advantage of circumstances or people for their own benefit, ofte

What does "opportunist" mean?

An opportunist is someone who takes advantage of circumstances or people for their own benefit, often without regard for principles or long-term consequences. The mental image is of someone watching a tide turn and immediately adjusting their sails to catch the wind, indifferent to whether their sudden change of direction leaves others behind. The term generally carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of integrity or a "fair-weather" attitude. It is frequently used in professional or political contexts to describe someone who switches alliances or positions whenever a better chance for personal gain appears.

"opportunist" in conversation

Office politics

Did you see Mark suddenly supporting the new merger?

Did you see Mark suddenly supporting the new merger?

Of course. He's a total opportunist; he only cares about getting that promotion.

Of course. He's a total opportunist; he only cares about getting that promotion.

Used to criticize someone for shifting their loyalty based on personal gain.

Discussing a friend

I wouldn't trust Leo with that business project.

I wouldn't trust Leo with that business project.

Why? He seems so helpful lately.

Why? He seems so helpful lately.

He's just an opportunist. He's only hanging around because he knows you have the funding.

He's just an opportunist. He's only hanging around because he knows you have the funding.

Highlights the suspicion often directed at opportunists.

"opportunist" in a sentence

  1. He is an opportunist who changes his views to please his boss.

    He is an opportunist who changes his views to please his boss.

  2. The politician was labeled an opportunist for switching parties just before the election.

    The politician was labeled an opportunist for switching parties just before the election.

  3. While some praised her adaptability, critics dismissed her strategic pivots as the actions of a calculated opportunist.

    While some praised her adaptability, critics dismissed her strategic pivots as the actions of a calculated opportunist.

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