Word Finder
What's the word for a person who changes their opinions to match whoever they re with?
The word you're looking for
An opportunist changes opinions or behaviour to gain advantage from each situation. It fits when someone agrees with different people to please them or benefit themselves.
Other words that fit
Use this for someone, often a man, who agrees with powerful people too easily.
Use this when the person copies others, but it is broader and less negative.
Use this for someone who changes personality or views to fit the group.
Use this in a more formal or strong negative sense for a flatterer who changes to please others.
Why this word
A person who changes opinions to match whoever they are with is often called an opportunist, especially if they do it for personal gain. In everyday speech, people may also call such a person a chameleon, because they adapt their views to fit the group. If the main idea is just agreeing with authority, yes-man is a better fit. Sycophant is stronger and more formal, and it usually suggests flattery too.
In context
- He is an opportunist who always agrees with the strongest person.
- She called him a chameleon in every discussion.
- Don't trust an opportunist who changes sides every day.
Other concepts to find a word for
Frequently asked questions
- Is chameleon a negative word here?
- Yes, it is usually negative when you mean someone changes views to fit the group.
- What is the most common word in everyday English?
- Yes-man is common, but it is best when the person agrees with authority or power.
- Is there one perfect word for this idea?
- Not always. The best word depends on whether you mean flattery, copying, or personal gain.