potential 1 of 2

adjective

pə-ˈten(t)-shəl How to pronounce potential (audio)
Definition of potentialnext
as in possible
existing only as a possibility and not in fact I can see a few potential problems with co-owning a beach house with another couple

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

potential

2 of 2

noun

as in possibility
something that can develop or become actual a time when cloning was merely a potential and the stuff of science fiction

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word potential distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of potential are dormant, latent, and quiescent. While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have.

a potential disaster

When is it sensible to use dormant instead of potential?

The words dormant and potential can be used in similar contexts, but dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping.

their passion had lain dormant

Where would latent be a reasonable alternative to potential?

While the synonyms latent and potential are close in meaning, latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop.

a latent desire for success

In what contexts can quiescent take the place of potential?

While in some cases nearly identical to potential, quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity.

the disease was quiescent

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of potential
Adjective
This game with Miami could be a potential player preview as the Celtics sit in the No. 2 spot of the Eastern Conference standings. — Mark Davis, Newsweek, 15 Mar. 2025 The parties also state their potential resolution would end a related case involving Colorado State and Utah State suing the Mountain West. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 15 Mar. 2025
Noun
The move comes as Raymond James increased its target price for Allegiant stock from $110 per share to $125, reflecting the airline’s potential for improved margins once freed from the Sunseeker burden. — Jackie Snow, Quartz, 15 Mar. 2025 Meanwhile, more institutions seeing the revenue potential are scrambling to get in on it. — Jon Marcus, NPR, 15 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for potential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential
  1. possible
  2. possibility
  3. prospect
Adjective
  • This experience made the team think hard about tactics and technology for drones to take off and land without their operators being detected, and how to extract operators as quickly as possible.
    — David Hambling, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • As for the future of the show, Barbato and Bailey say anything is possible, including a potential second show and a Broadway expansion.
    — Lawrence Yee, People.com, 18 Mar. 2025
Definition of possible
Noun
  • This tough little camera is waterproof and compact, which opens up all sorts of creative mounting possibilities.
    — Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 17 Mar. 2025
  • The next mayor will need to work well with others while also representing the best interests of village residents, balancing the existing demands of running a popular suburb while preparing for the possibility of exponential growth if a deal with the Bears goes through.
    — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of possibility
Noun
  • Ranked as Cincinnati’s top prospect this year by MLB Pipeline, Burns made his pro debut March 6 against the Texas Rangers.
    — Chuck Murr, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • The Kansas City Royals assigned top prospect Jac Caglianone to minor-league camp on Monday.
    — Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 17 Mar. 2025
Definition of prospect

Browse Nearby Words

potentates
potential
potentialities
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Cite this Entry

“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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