opportunity / possibility

[vil]

Dear teachers,

You have to know that in my natural language both English words “opportunity” and “possibility” have the same meaning especially in the following sentences:

1.Science disproves the possibility of miracles.
2.There is still a possibility of his coming today (i.e. it is not too late).
3.In our country ll people are given the opportunity of getting higher education.
4.Our country gives scientists every opportunity of carrying on research work.
5.You must take every opportunity of speaking English for practice.
6.I shall speak to her about it at the first opportunity.

Would you be kind enough to tell me something more about the subtle difference of both words in English language?

Thank you for your efforts.

Regards,

V.

[thod00]

Perhaps you should look up the base words opportune and possible.

A general can order his troops to attack the enemy whenever he wishes. Thus it is always possible, he has that possibility. However just because something is possible does not mean it is opportune. He will wait until he sees a weakness in the enemy lines and take advantage of the opportunity.

[vil]

Hi thod00,

Thank you for your explanation.

A possibility means something that may exist, happen, or be done.

In the word opportunity we stress the idea of some chance which is to one’s advantage, or which is favorable, or suits one’s convenience.

Thank you again for your backing.

Regards,

V.