Opportunism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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opportunism
[ˌɒpərˈtunɪzəm ]
Definitions
political behavior
Opportunism is the practice of taking advantage of opportunities as they arise, often with little regard for principles or consequences. It can be seen in various contexts, such as politics, business, or personal relationships, where individuals may prioritize immediate gains over ethical considerations.
Synonyms
exploitation, pragmatism, self-serving.
Examples of usage
- His opportunism in securing funding angered his colleagues.
- The politician's opportunism during the crisis was criticized by the media.
- She was accused of opportunism for changing her stance to win votes.
business practice
In a business context, opportunism refers to the tendency of individuals or companies to take advantage of favorable situations to maximize profits, even if it means bending rules or acting unethically. This often leads to a competitive advantage, albeit sometimes at the expense of trust.
Synonyms
calculating, opportunity-seeking.
Examples of usage
- His opportunism was evident when he undercut his competitors' prices.
- Opportunism in market strategies can lead to backlash from consumers.
- Companies must be careful not to let opportunism compromise their integrity.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Politics
- Opportunism is often criticized in political contexts, where leaders may change their beliefs to gain favor or power.
- Historically, certain politicians have been labeled 'opportunists' when they align with popular trends rather than sticking to principles.
- In party politics, this term can refer to members who prioritize personal agendas over party loyalty or public interest.
Psychology
- Studies show that opportunistic behavior can stem from a desire for immediate gratification, often leading to short-term thinking.
- Individuals who exhibit opportunism may struggle with empathy, focusing on their own benefits while neglecting others' needs.
- In group settings, opportunistic behaviors can create distrust and conflict, impacting team dynamics.
Business
- In the business world, successful entrepreneurs often exhibit opportunism by pivoting strategies based on market demands.
- Companies that quickly adapt to changes in consumer trends can capitalize on new opportunities, demonstrating effective opportunism.
- However, being labeled opportunistic in business can also damage reputation, especially if perceived as unethical.
Social Commentary
- Social theorists criticize opportunism as a trait that can undermine community solidarity by encouraging self-interest over collective well-being.
- In modern discussions, 'opportunism' often relates to social media, where individuals curate their online presence to maximize likes and followers.
- Cultural critiques suggest that prevalent opportunistic behavior can lead to a society overly focused on individual success at the expense of mutual support.
Origin of 'opportunism'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'opportunus,' which means favorable or advantageous, reflecting the idea of seizing chances.
- Originally, 'opportunism' described sailors seeking safe harbor, highlighting the connection with taking advantage of situations.
- The term gained popularity in the late 19th century in politics to describe individuals who shift their stance for personal gain.
The term 'opportunism' originates from the Latin word 'opportunus', meaning 'convenient' or 'favorable'. It evolved through the French word 'opportunisme' in the late 19th century, primarily associated with political circles. Initially, it was a neutral term referring to seizing opportunities, but its connotation shifted over time to imply unethical or self-serving behavior. This shift is largely due to its use in a political context, where individuals or groups take advantage of situations for personal gain. Today, the term encompasses a broader range of scenarios, including business and personal relationships, marking a shift from its original meaning of simply being opportunistic to a more critical view of the ethical implications of such behavior.