potential 1 of 2

Definition of potentialnext

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
The agency is collecting data for a potential launch of the Balance program in the future. Tami Luhby, CNN Money, 29 June 2026 Expanding children’s merchandise through one of retail’s most recognizable brands provides another potential reason for families to visit its stores rather than competing department stores or online marketplaces. Mark Faithfull, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
Noun
Splatoon Raiders has the potential to expand this phenomenon to a new audience and give existing fans a new obsession. Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 30 June 2026 The world-building potential of research is a power not to be underestimated. Shanti Escalante-De Mattei, ARTnews.com, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for potential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential
Adjective
  • Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 30 June 2026
  • If stress builds, schedule a short stretch break and set softer deadlines where possible, because kindness to your body supports reliable output.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • The possibility of disruptions to oil flows via the Strait of Hormuz, however, might not entirely be discounted, which could complicate energy supply calculus.
    Justina Lee, CNBC, 6 July 2026
  • Efraín Juárez, then the coach of Pumas, was asked about the possibility of his team ending a long title drought.
    Eduard Cauich, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026
Noun
  • The rules were altered in 2004 at the urging of Algeria, which was struggling to field a competitive national team with wholly domestic players and saw dozens of better prospects from the diaspora living in France.
    Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 July 2026
  • Argentina are perhaps the team who raised the loudest questions about their prospects while still actually progressing.
    Nick Miller, New York Times, 4 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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