op·por·tu·ni·ty (ŏp'ər-tōō'nĭ-tē, -tyōō'-) n.
pl.op·por·tu·ni·ties
A favorable or advantageous circumstance or combination of circumstances.
A favorable or suitable occasion or time.
A chance for progress or advancement.
Synonyms: These nouns refer to a favorable or advantageous circumstance or combination of circumstances. Opportunity is an auspicious state of affairs or a suitable time: "If you prepare yourself . . . you will be able to grasp opportunity for broader experience when it appears" (Eleanor Roosevelt). Occasion suggests the proper time for action: an auspicious occasion; an occasion for celebration. An opening is an opportunity affording a good possibility of success: waited patiently for her opening, then exposed the report's inconsistency. Chance often implies an opportunity that arises through luck or accident: a chance for us to chat; no chance of losing. A break is an often sudden piece of luck, especially good luck: got his first big break in Hollywood.
1375, from O.Fr. opportunite (13c.), from L. opportunitatem (nom. opportunitas) "fitness, suitableness, favorable time," from opportunus (see opportune).