seize the opportunity

/siːz ðə ˌɒpəˈtjuːnəti/
phraseIntermediate
general

To take advantage of a favorable situation or chance that presents itself.

He seized the opportunity to travel abroad when his company offered a work exchange program.

He took advantage of the chance to travel abroad when his company offered a work exchange program.

The startup seized the opportunity to expand into new markets during the economic boom.

The startup took advantage of the chance to expand into new markets during the economic boom.

💡

This phrase emphasizes acting quickly and decisively when a good chance arises.

Collocations

seize the momenttake advantage of the present timemiss the opportunityfail to take advantage of a chance

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

miss the boatidiom
fail to take advantage of an opportunity
strike while the iron is hotproverb
act quickly when conditions are favorable

💡Pro Tip

Use in professional contexts

This phrase is often used in business and career settings to describe taking advantage of career opportunities or market conditions.

Gold Rule

Timing is key

The phrase emphasizes the importance of acting quickly when a good opportunity arises.

📖Word Origin

The phrase comes from the verb 'seize,' meaning to take hold of something quickly and firmly, combined with 'opportunity,' meaning a favorable circumstance.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to describe taking action when a good chance presents itself. It often implies a sense of urgency or decisiveness.

Word Breakdown

seize
to take hold of quickly
verb
+
the opportunity
a favorable circumstance
noun phrase
English Dictionary