Definition of potentialitynext
as in possibility
something that can develop or become actual would like to see a colony on the moon as an actuality and not merely a potentiality

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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 potentiality The film is set in 2029, a mere three years from now, demonstrating both an optimism about the potentiality of AI and a pessimism about the city’s trajectory. Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 21 Jan. 2026 And where there is injustice and frustration, the potentialities for violence are greater. NBC news, 12 Oct. 2025 On foot, there are no boundaries in the land, no divides, nothing but the past and the potentiality of the future. Michael McColly, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2025 Each of these sentiments points to the rich, fertile space that exists at the margins—of the body, of language, of the photograph—while also emphasizing the creative potentialities of touch, the action that propels these often porous edges to meet. Jessica Simmons-Reid, Artforum, 1 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for potentiality
Recent Examples of Synonyms for potentiality
Noun
  • That geometry offers the rare possibility of watching an eclipsed sun descend toward the horizon.
    Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026
  • Chinese military affairs expert Song Zhongping said the Type 076 amphibious assault ship marks a significant technological advance, introducing new possibilities for naval operations.
    Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 2 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Covid-19 wasn’t immediately recognized as a disease with airborne transmission with the potential to spread beyond the 6-foot social distancing measure, especially in places with poor ventilation or around activities with heavy breathing.
    Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026
  • Schools on every level are already busy assembling coaches, players and recruits — assessing name, image and likeness potential as well as schedules and logistics — to get a head start.
    ABC News, ABC News, 4 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Potentiality.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potentiality. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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