Opportunistic/ˌɑːpərtuːˈnɪstɪk/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation The word often implies selfish or unethical behavior in social situations. His opportunistic move at work earned him distrust from colleagues. Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Perception In some cultures, being opportunistic is frowned upon compared to collective well-being. In our community, opportunistic tactics are not admired. Pro Tip 3/3Emotional Impact When called opportunistic, a person might feel accused of being manipulative or cunning. Feeling hurt, he denied being opportunistic in his decisions.