opportunistic
UK[ˌɒpətjuːˈnɪstɪk]US[ˌɑːpərtuːˈnɪstɪk]
adj
exploiting immediate opportunities, especially in a selfish or unprincipled way.
adj
(biology) of a microorganism or infection) causing disease only in certain circumstances, especially when a host's immune system is impaired.
Morpheme Breakdown
opportun
ist
ic
opportun
e) (opportune
ist
agent noun suffix
ic
adjective suffix
Etymology
the word 'opportunistic' is built upon the core 'opportune', which originates from latin 'opportunus', itself a compound of 'ob-' (toward) and 'portus' (harbor). the literal sense was of a favorable wind driving a ship toward a safe harbor, hence 'suitable' or 'timely'. the suffix '-ist' denotes a person who practices a behavior, creating 'opportunist' for one who seizes advantages. the final '-ic' adjectival suffix then modifies this to describe the characteristic behavior. thus, the modern meaning evolved from the nautical concept of seizing a favorable moment for safe arrival to the general, and often negative, sense of exploiting any chance for personal gain.
Analysis
Structure: opportun(e) (opportune) + ist (agent noun suffix) + ic (adjective suffix)
opportun(e) from latin 'opportunus' (fit, suitable, convenient). ist from greek '-istes' via latin '-ista', forming agent nouns. ic from latin '-icus', greek '-ikos', forming adjectives.
Examples
he was criticized for his opportunistic switch to the leading political party.
the doctor explained that pneumonia is often an opportunistic infection in patients with weakened immune systems.
the company made an opportunistic bid for its rival when its stock price suddenly fell.