opportune - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
opportune Word Meanings
- timely and well-chosen
- suitable for a particular situation
- occurring at a favorable time
opportune Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
opportune Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɒp.əˈtjuːn/
US
/ˌɑː.pɚˈtun/
opportune Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'op-' (toward) + 'portune' (opportune). Historical origin: Latin 'opportunus' → Old French 'opportun' → English 'opportune'. Memory image: Picture a door (port) that opens exactly when you need to enter a room—a moment perfectly aligned with your need.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Opportune means arriving at a moment favorable for a particular purpose. It describes something timely and well‑chosen, or a situation that is especially suitable for a given action. In use, you might refer to an opportune remark, an opportune moment to launch a project, or an opportune alignment of circumstances. The sense blends timeliness with fit and often carries a somewhat formal tone rather than casual 'timely'. Etymology helps memory: Root decomposition 'op-' (toward) + 'portune' (opportune). Historical origin: Latin 'opportunus' → Old French 'opportun' → English 'opportune'. Memory image: picture a door (port) that opens exactly when you need to enter—a moment perfectly aligned with your need.
Usage Reminders
- Do not overuse; reserve for formal or literary contexts. Use with nouns like moment, remark, or decision. Pair with 'timely' but note the nuance of fit. Often followed by 'to' or 'for' in structures like 'opportune to act' or 'opportune for launching'. Consider alternates like timely, ideal, or well‑timed depending on formality. Remember the root idea is alignment of timing with purpose.
Common Misconceptions
- Believing opportune means luck alone; it also implies suitability and timeliness, not random chance.
- Using opportune for everyday, casual timing rather than a moment that is well‑suited for a specific purpose.
- Confusing opportune with 'opportunistic' – the latter has a more negative or self-serving sense.
- Thinking 'opportune' can describe any timely event; it usually describes a fit for a particular aim.
- Confusing with 'inopportune' which means not favorable timing.
Thinking Differences
In English, opportune often sits on the fence between 'timely' and 'appropriate for a goal', leaning formal and literary. Learners may overuse it in casual conversations or misplace it with positive but general timing.
Learning Tips
- Learn core collocations: opportune moment, opportune to act, opportune remark.
- Distinguish from timely by focusing on fit, not just speed.
- Use in formal writing or speeches to convey precise timing.
- Pair with synonyms like well-timed, suitable, or advantageous when appropriate.
- Remember the memory image to help recall the sense of alignment.
- Practice by judging whether a suggested moment truly matches a goal.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'opportune'?
A.Inconvenient
B.Serious
C.Well-timed
D.Boring
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'opportune' correctly?
A.He was wearing an opportune outfit for the casual party.
B.The opportune time for a meal is when you're hungry, even if it's late.
C.She chose an opportune moment to ask for help during the meeting.
D.It was opportune to arrive late since the event had been canceled.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'opportune'?
A.Timely
B.Late
C.Irrelevant
D.Rushed
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym of 'opportune'?
A.Fortunate
B.Inopportune
C.Advantageous
D.Pleasant
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario that demonstrates the meaning of the word?
A.The unexpected rain made for an opportune opportunity to stay indoors and read a book.
B.Finding a job in a booming economy is often an opportune time.
C.He missed the opportune moment to propose on their anniversary, which was a significant occasion.
D.She realized that leaving early from the meeting was an opportune decision.
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