opportunity knocks

USAGE SUMMARY

"opportunity knocks" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as an idiom to refer to a chance or opportunity that may not last long, and is often used as an encouragement to take advantage of the opportunity before it passes. For example, "As they say, opportunity knocks - don't let this chance to gain experience pass you by!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For the NYSE, opportunity knocks.

The Economist

Opportunity Knocks 29.

The Guardian

She appeared on Opportunity Knocks.

The Guardian - Film

I agree that opportunity knocks.

The Guardian - Opinion

If opportunity knocks he should seize it.

Independent

In 1967, the brothers won Opportunity Knocks.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The X Factor is Opportunity Knocks.

The Guardian

Opportunity Knocks: Bay Area and national nonprofit job listings.

Stanford University

When opportunity knocks, Sharonee Vaca '19 is ready to answer.

Cornell University

Now, opportunity knocks in an unforeseen way for him.

The Guardian - Sport

Going on Opportunity Knocks when I was six.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "opportunity knocks" when you want to emphasize that someone should take advantage of a favorable situation before it passes. It's a call to action.

Common error

Don't use "opportunity knocks" when describing a situation where the chance is ongoing or not time-sensitive. This phrase implies immediacy and potential loss if not acted upon.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opportunity knocks" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression. Ludwig indicates that it is correct and usable in written English. It serves to highlight the arrival of a favorable chance or prospect, urging action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "opportunity knocks" is a widely recognized idiom that serves as a call to action, urging individuals to seize a favorable chance before it disappears. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic and business settings. The phrase's neutral register and high frequency make it a versatile and impactful choice for emphasizing the urgency of taking advantage of a present moment. To ensure proper usage, remember that this idiom best suits situations where time is of the essence, and inaction could lead to a missed chance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strike while the iron is hot

Advocates taking advantage of a current opportunity before it disappears.

a window of opportunity appears

Highlights the limited time frame in which the chance is available.

an opening presents itself

Emphasizes the presence of a void or gap that can be filled, similar to a door opening.

your moment arrives

Emphasizes a long-awaited or anticipated chance to succeed.

a chance arises

Focuses on the occurrence of a possibility, rather than the active taking of it.

the time is ripe

Indicates that conditions are favorable for a particular action or outcome.

fortune favors you

Suggests luck or good fortune is on your side, leading to a favorable outcome.

the stars align

Highlights a confluence of favorable circumstances, suggesting a stroke of luck.

the ball is in your court

Indicates that the responsibility to act now rests with the listener.

seize the day

A more general call to make the most of present opportunities, not necessarily implying a specific one.

FAQs

How can I use "opportunity knocks" in a sentence?

You can use "opportunity knocks" to emphasize the importance of seizing a chance. For example: "As they say, "opportunity knocks", so don't hesitate to apply for the job."

What does "opportunity knocks" idiomatically mean?

The idiom "opportunity knocks" means that a favorable chance is available but may not last long, urging one to take advantage of it before it's too late.

Are there alternative phrases to "opportunity knocks"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "strike while the iron is hot", "a chance arises", or "seize the day" to convey similar meanings.

Is it correct to say "opportunity is knocking" instead of "opportunity knocks"?

Both phrases are correct and convey the same meaning. "Opportunity is knocking" simply uses a continuous tense, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the chance. However, ""opportunity knocks"" is more idiomatic.