Possibility x Opportunity

[popsie]

Hi,

Could you explain to me a difference between possibility and opportunity? Thanks in advance.

 

[Anglika]

There is a possibility I will travel to New York next month. [There is chance this may happen]

I have the opportunity to travel to New York next month. [It has been made possible to do this]

 

[popsie]

Ok. So, is it true, that the words 'possibility' and 'chance' are synonyms?

 

[Anglika]

A possibility is a likelihood; a chance can be a possibility.

Yes, they can be synonymous - in the right context.

 

[popsie]

Thank you very much for your quick reply.

 

[Anglika]

You're welcome ;-)

 

[banderas]

Ok. So, is it true, that the words 'possibility' and 'chance' are synonyms?

Only in the right context. But bear in mind that opportunity is something you create. If I give you £10, no opportumity is cerated untill you exercise several possibilities and turn this money into a plan.
In this context a possibility is never an opportunity. ;-)

By the way, we say: do not miss the opportunity, not possibility
There are many possibilities abut once you create an opportunity to do something, grab it! If you don't grab this opportunity, you might not get another one.

 

[lambos]

An opportunity is usually understood in the context of a future positive outcome; a possibility needn't be.

 

[popsie]

Thanks a lot for all replies.