opportunity
UK[ˌɒp.əˈtʃuː.nə.ti]US[ˌɑː.pɚˈtuː.nə.ti]
n
a time or set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something.
n
a chance for employment or promotion.
Morpheme Breakdown
op
port
unity
op
toward, against, in the way of
port
harbor, port
unity
state or condition of
Etymology
the word 'opportunity' originates from the latin 'opportunus', meaning 'favorable'. this adjective was formed from the phrase 'ob portum veniens'—'coming toward a harbor'—specifically describing a wind blowing toward a harbor, thus favorable for a ship's arrival. the root 'portus' (harbor) metaphorically evolved to signify a favorable situation or a suitable time for action. the suffix '-ity' was added in late latin to form 'opportunitas', denoting the state or quality of being favorable, which passed into old french as 'opportunité' and then into middle english, solidifying its abstract meaning of a set of circumstances suitable for a particular purpose.
Analysis
Structure: op + port + unity
- op: from latin 'ob-', meaning 'toward, against, in the way of'. a prefix indicating direction or opposition.
- port: from latin 'portus', meaning 'harbor, port'. a root denoting a place of arrival or refuge.
- unity: from latin '-unitas', a noun-forming suffix meaning 'state or condition of'.
Examples
the conference provided an excellent opportunity for networking.
she saw the job opening as a perfect opportunity to advance her career.
you should take every opportunity to learn new skills.