should an opportunity arise vs should any opportunity arise

Both phrases are correct, and they are used similarly. 'Should an opportunity arise' is general, while 'should any opportunity arise' is also general and implies any opportunity. The choice between them depends mostly on personal preference.

Explained by Vince
Editor at TextRanch

Last updated: August 06, 2024

should an opportunity arise

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to express a conditional situation where a specific opportunity might occur in the future. It implies readiness or willingness to act if that particular opportunity presents itself.

Examples:

Should an opportunity arise, I will be ready to take on the challenge.
Should an opportunity arise for further discussion, we can address any concerns then.

Show examples from the web [+]

If an opportunity arises, I will send someone to come get you.
But if an opportunity arises at y.e.t.i., No one will sing your praises louder than i will.
But there is a moment when an opportunity arises, and if you don't grasp it, that's it.
Show this to your opposite number... if an opportunity arises.
When an opportunity arises for a world record, it creates a rift.
We must have sufficient funding to enable these individuals to study throughout Europe and to build a future for their country whenever such an opportunity arises, and whenever Belarus regains its independence.
As soon as the opportunity arises we'll help you to escape.
Until one day, a new opportunity arises.
The Commission will continue to raise this question with the Uzbek authorities wherever the opportunity arises.
The Committee therefore recommends that these key provisions be revised as appropriate when the opportunity arises.
Opportunity arises in the private rooms of restaurants, on exclusive golf courses.
Not until there is cooperation between partners across administrative borders can opportunities arise for finding solutions and exploiting potential.
When I'm on call I grab 40 winks whenever the opportunity arises.
OK, I Will Keep That In Mind, Should Another Opportunity Arise.
New opportunities arise in the switch from large-scale operations to decentralisation and tailor-made approaches, providing that the corresponding skills are also developed.
There are at present quite a few good examples of free competition's being threatened as soon as the opportunity arises for disrupting it.
We shall venture to Continental Europe when the opportunity arises.
If the opportunity arises to have a serious relationship with someone, we can pursue it.
This is a considerable success and we will use whatever opportunities arise during our presidency to promote debt relief.
Madam President, now and again, the opportunity arises to break new ground, including in European politics.

Alternatives:

If an opportunity arises
In case an opportunity arises
Should a chance arise
If the opportunity arises
In the event that an opportunity arises

should any opportunity arise

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

This phrase is used to express a conditional situation where any opportunity, without specifying a particular one, might occur in the future. It implies readiness or willingness to act if any opportunity presents itself.