OPPORTUNISM Meaning and
Definition
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Opportunism refers to a behavior or approach characterized by taking advantage of favorable circumstances or exploiting situations for personal gain, often without regard for principles, ethics, or long-term consequences. It involves a self-serving and pragmatic mentality that seeks immediate benefits or advantages while disregarding potential impacts on others.
This term typically applies to individuals or groups who exhibit a readiness to seize opportunities that present themselves, prioritizing short-term gains over consistent adherence to a particular ideology, moral code, or collective well-being. Opportunists tend to be adaptable and flexible in their actions, adjusting their strategies as circumstances change in order to maximize personal benefits.
The opportunistic mindset can be seen in various contexts, such as politics, business, relationships, or social interactions. In politics, for instance, an opportunist might shift their allegiance or change their stance on certain issues for the sake of gaining popularity, public support, or personal advancements. In business, opportunism can manifest as taking advantage of market fluctuations, exploiting vulnerabilities of competitors, or manipulating circumstances to increase profits, sometimes at the expense of others.
While opportunism may sometimes be seen as advantageous for short-term success, it often comes at the cost of morality, fairness, or sustainable progress. Consequently, opportunistic individuals or practices may be viewed negatively by society, as they are often perceived as self-interested and lacking integrity.
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Etymology of OPPORTUNISM
The word "opportunism" comes from the Latin noun "opportunus", which means "favorable or convenient". The term "opportunus" is derived from the combination of the preposition "ob", meaning "toward", and "portus", meaning "port or harbor". In Latin, "portus" was used metaphorically to represent shelter or refuge. Over time, the term "opportunus" developed the sense of something being favorable or suitable for achieving a particular objective or benefit. In the late 19th century, the term "opportunism" began to be used in a negative political context, referring to the practice of taking advantage of favorable circumstances or events for personal gain.
Similar spelling words for OPPORTUNISM
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