Mister Micawber  +  620635 Wed, 24 Dec 08 10:04 PM .  I would call seize more enthusiastic-- as if time were more precious. . Mister Micawber Joined on Wed, Aug 4 2004 Yokohama Veteran Member 30,760 'The question is,' said Humpty Dumpty, 'which is to be master-- that's all.'

	Mister Micawber  +  621730 Thu, 25 Dec 08 10:57 PM . I think that chances are more accidental than opportunities and opportunities are generally chances to accomplish something positive.  As you have surmised, however, this is a subtle distinction.  Nevertheless, in #2, it is a courtesy to the listeners to understand clearly that this chance is a positive, affirmative opportunity that the speaker has taken to compliment them. . Mister Micawber Affirmatives

	oerwahfm  +  622754 Fri, 26 Dec 08 10:18 PM I found this thread is useful for/to me. or should I say? I found out this thread is useful to/for me. Many thanks to Alphecca Star, Grammar Geek and Anonymous oerwahfm Joined on Fri, Dec 26 2008 New Member 21

	Mister Micawber  +  623254 Sat, 27 Dec 08 08:30 AM . 1.What does this mean? "opportunities are generally chances to accomplish something positive-- I want to suggest that 'opportunity' is a more affirmative word, while 'chance' is more neutral.  This is my opinion. 2.Does 'take an opportunity' express less enthusiastic than 'seize an opportunity' and more passive?-- I would say less enthusiasm but no passivity. 3.You should take/seize the chance/opportunity to travel while you're still young."  Does 'seize' also work here? --Yes What is the subtle difference between 'chance' and 'opportunity' here?-- As above 4.."I'd like to take/seize this chance to thank you for all your hard work."  Does 'seize' work here?-- Yes, but 'chance' is not so good, as I explained in an earlier post. . Mister Micawber Difference Between, Affirmatives

	Mister Micawber  +  623467 Sat, 27 Dec 08 01:14 PM . Chance is more neutral that opportunity; opportunity is always positive.  You can have a lucky chance or an unlucky chance, but opportunities are always fortunate. I cannot say it more clearly. . Mister Micawber