when opportunity arises

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "when opportunity arises" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate a future moment when a chance or favorable situation becomes available. Example: "I will invest in the stock market when opportunity arises, as I believe it can lead to significant returns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Behind the jovial demeanour there remains an experienced, title-winning defender determined to prove his worth to Jürgen Klopp and one who, as a resolute display in the Capital One Cup semi-final win demonstrated, retains the ability to do so when opportunity arises at Liverpool.

The Guardian - Sport

Iran's attempt to influence events in the region when opportunity arises is neither new nor particularly surprising.

Huffington Post

His finesse and feel for shifting paces are advantages, but the better net player must be willing to use them and move forward when opportunity arises.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Yet when opportunity arose, we talked to our enemy.

The New York Times

It was just sex with no frills and no conversation when opportunity arose.

BBC

He would often ask himself how the manufacturing processes were done, or, when opportunity arose, ask the workers directly.

The Guardian

When opportunity arose, Gou launched attack on Fu, caught him by surprise and wiped out the State of Wu in one stroke.

Bandung: Journal of the Global South

All of that got bundled into not being a naysayer when opportunities arose.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So when opportunities arise, we have a bench of strong women candidates ready to go.

The Guardian - Opinion

Spencer's penchant for getting injured when opportunities arise is frustrating him.

The New York Times - Sports

Follow individuals in your industry and reach out, so they remember you when opportunities arise.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "when opportunity arises" to signal readiness and preparedness to act on a potential advantage or favorable moment. For example, "We should gather market research now so that we can launch the product effectively "when opportunity arises".

Common error

Avoid pairing "opportunity" with verbs that suggest creation or forcing. For example, instead of saying "create an opportunity arises", use "when opportunity arises" as a natural outcome of preparation and vigilance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "when opportunity arises" functions as an adverbial clause of time, modifying a main clause by indicating the timing or condition under which the main clause's action occurs. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "when opportunity arises" is a grammatically sound adverbial clause of time that communicates readiness to act when a favorable moment occurs. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable in written English and frequently found in News & Media. While it is considered 'Uncommon', grasping its usage and synonyms—such as "when the occasion presents itself" or "when circumstances permit"—can enrich your writing. Remember, preparation is key to leveraging situations effectively "when opportunity arises".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when the occasion presents itself

Replaces "opportunity arises" with a more formal tone.

when the chance occurs

Substitutes "opportunity" with "chance" for a more informal expression.

when the time is right

Indicates a suitable moment, focusing on timing rather than specific opportunity.

when a window opens

Emphasizes a limited time frame for the opportunity.

as the situation allows

Focuses on external conditions enabling the action.

when feasible

Highlights the practicality and possibility of the action.

when circumstances permit

A more formal way of saying "when the situation allows".

if the occasion should arise

Introduces a conditional aspect to the opportunity.

at the first chance

Highlights acting on the opportunity immediately.

in due course

Implies that the opportunity will arise at some future point without specifying when.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "when opportunity arises" to sound more formal?

You can use more formal alternatives like "when the occasion presents itself" or "when circumstances permit".

What does "when opportunity arises" mean in the context of business strategy?

In business, "when opportunity arises" suggests being proactive and prepared to capitalize on emerging market trends, competitor weaknesses, or technological advancements. It emphasizes readiness to seize potential advantages.

Is it better to say "when opportunity arises" or "when opportunities arise"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different meanings. "When opportunity arises" refers to a singular, specific chance, while "when opportunities arise" refers to multiple or general chances.

How can I prepare to act "when opportunity arises"?

Preparation involves gathering relevant information, developing necessary skills, and establishing a flexible plan. Being proactive and informed allows you to swiftly respond and take advantage of favorable situations "when the time is right".