POTENTIAL Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

potential 1 of 2

adjective

pə-ˈten(t)-shəl

Definition of potential

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

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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

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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

Here’s a look at where the two countries stand as potential negotiations loom. — ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026 That enthusiasm picks up with each potential development in a cold case. — Lauren Mascarenhas, CNN Money, 24 Oct. 2026

Noun

One invective accuses the directors of destroying the truth-telling potential of documentary. — Doreen St. Félix, New Yorker, 24 Oct. 2026 For military and intelligence agencies, the potential now existed for reconnaissance at a far larger scale than what was possible with high-altitude aircraft. — Robert Z. Pearlman, Space.com, 24 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for potential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential

Adjective

There was palpable excitement, especially after Barringer noted that national Democrats had put the seat on a list of ones to watch for a possible upset.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Oct. 2026
The embassy said in a statement Monday that partial curfews had been introduced in several French cities, with additional restrictions possible.

— Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of possible

Noun

This discovery establishes a new way to couple mechanical motion and electricity at the smallest scales, opening new possibilities for molecular electronics.

— Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026
Over the summer, Zuckerberg shared with Meta advisors his plans to relocate outside California to avoid the possibility of a significant reduction in his control over the company as a result of selling enough stock to fund a 5% tax.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of possibility

Noun

In addition to having space for free agents, the club will also likely protect a few prospects who are otherwise eligible for the Rule 5 Draft.

— Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026
Read Nellie Andreeva’s excellent report on his career and prospects here.

— Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of prospect

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potentates

potential

potentialities

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“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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