Synonyms of potential

potential 1 of 2

adjective

pə-ˈten(t)-shəl 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• possible
• implicit
• probable
• plausible
• theoretic
• conceivable
• hypothetical
• theoretical
• viable
• generable
• imaginable
• alleged
• purported
• feasible
• achievable
• practicable
• likely
• thinkable
• conjectural
• assumed
• workable
• suppositional
• attainable
• supposed
• reputed
• doable

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• real
• actual
• factual
• existent
• demonstrated
• confirmed
• true
• genuine
• established
• bona fide
• authentic
• proven
• substantiated
• authenticated

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

• possibility
• prospect
• potentiality
• capability
• likelihood
• probability
• eventuality
• potency
• latency

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• reality
• certainty
• actuality

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

Recent Examples of potential

Adjective

Trump has also spoken at length about his concerns about the New York City mayoral race, criticizing the potential election of progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani, who drew national attention for beating former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary. —Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025

The provider added that no action was required for any previous communications about potential coverage changes. —Keely Doll, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Oct. 2025

Noun

The team built a small ec3 arch to show the potential. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 2 Oct. 2025

When heavy rain occurs, there is a potential for flooding, particularly in areas that are low-lying or prone to floods. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 2 Oct. 2025