American Dictionary of the English Language

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Opportunity


OPPORTU'NITY, noun [Latin opportunitas.]

1. Fit or convenient time; a time favorable for the purpose; suitable time combined with other favorable circumstances. Suitableness of time is the predominant signification, but it includes generally circumstances of place and other conveniences adapted to the end desired.

A wise man will make more opportunities than he finds.

I had an opportunity to see the cloud descent.

Neglect no opportunity of doing good.

2. Convenient means. I had an opportunity of sending the letter, or no opportunity to send it. Opportunities rarely occur on frequently offer.