/ ˌɒpəˈtjuːnəti; NAmE ˌɑːpərˈtuː-/ noun
[ C , U ] ( pl. -ies ) opportunity (to do sth) | opportunity (for sth / for doing sth) | opportunity (of doing sth) a time when a particular situation makes it possible to do or achieve sth
SYN chance :
You'll have the opportunity to ask any questions at the end.
There was no opportunity for further discussion.
At least give him the opportunity of explaining what happened.
Our company promotes equal opportunities for women (= women are given the same jobs, pay, etc. as men) .
career / employment / job opportunities
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues for their support.
He is rude to me at every opportunity (= whenever possible) .
They intend to close the school at the earliest opportunity (= as soon as possible) .
a window of opportunity (= a period of time when the circumstances are right for doing sth)
—see also photo opportunity
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Old French opportunite , from Latin opportunitas , from opportunus (see opportune ).