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potential

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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

Examples of potential in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
But that has not tamped down criticism that the Post was backing away from any potential backlash should Donald Trump return to the White House. Ted Johnson, Deadline, 28 Oct. 2024 Election officials encourage those who haven't returned their absentee ballots to do so via a local ballot drop box to avoid potential postal delays. Clara Hendrickson, Detroit Free Press, 28 Oct. 2024
Noun
Highlighting its potential for use in EVs at the ongoing Paris Motor Show, the Taiwanese company claimed a major leap in energy density and charging efficiency, promising 186 miles (300 km) of range from a five-minute charge. New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2024 Yet aside from some flashes of brilliance, first at Texas A&M and then at USC, that potential largely had gone unfulfilled for two seasons. Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for potential 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'potential.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near potential

Cite this Entry

“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on potential

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