Words / C1

op-uh-tyoo-NIST-ik/ˌɒpətjuːˈnɪstɪk/

Opportunistic means exploiting chances as they arise, often with little regard for principle: an opportunistic cut, opportunistic hours. Convenient is everyday; a saving is still a catchment hole.

Meaning

Exploiting chances as they arise, often with little regard for principle.

Examples

• “An opportunistic cut to the night bus is still a catchment hole.”
• “Convenient is everyday. Expedient is the close twin. A saving is a slogan. A last-service time is a file. Publish the time; then keep the saving if the bus still runs.”

Good to know

Taking chances, often unscrupulously. Close: expedient. A saving ≠ a last bus.

Near in meaning

expedient, unscrupulous, self-seeking

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