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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

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
With new media deals already locked in, the league is riding the momentum into expansion despite the potential labor fight, which could create a possible work stoppage if a new accord isn’t agreed upon by the end of October. Eric Jackson, Sportico.com, 1 July 2025 In early June, Politico reported that officials were vetting thousands of detainees from different countries, including European allies, for a potential transfer to Guantanamo Bay, a report that the White House denied at the time. Camilo Montoya-Galvez july 1, CBS News, 1 July 2025
Noun
The project highlights widely divergent views on AI’s potential to reshape entertainment as the two countries compete for dominance in the highly competitive AI space. Wendy Lee, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2025 For Suri, the project holds special significance beyond its commercial potential. Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 30 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for potential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential
Adjective
  • The operator lands their FPV by the side of a track or on a rooftop and waits for possible targets, alerted either by a spotter drone or using the drone’s own camera.
    David Hambling, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • The tourist destination of Cabo San Lucas is now in the possible path of Flossie.
    Gabe Hauari, USA Today, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • From clothes to baby strollers, the possibilities can radically help to improve the logistics of intermodal travel.
    Ramsey Qubein, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • And the possibility of a split verdict here, at the least, is very real.
    Tracy Wright , Lauryn Overhultz , Maria Paronich , Brendan McDonald, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • If passed and faithfully implemented – a far from certain prospect – these reforms will help lessen the periodic supply constraints, and resulting price spikes, that too often afflict California.
    Wayne Winegarden, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • De Vries signed for $4.2 million before the 2024 season as arguably the top prospect from last year’s international amateur window.
    Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 9 Jul. 2025.

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