n.; pl. Opportunities [ F. opportunité, 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. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. Convenience of situation; fitness. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]
Hull, a town of great strength and opportunity, both to sea and land affairs. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]
3. Importunity; earnestness. [ Obs. ] Jer. Taylor. [ 1913 Webster ]
Syn. -- Occasion; convenience; occurrence. -- 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. [ 1913 Webster ]