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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
Bethune-Cookman University in Florida also reported a potential threat, with school officials confirming their Daytona Beach campus went into lockdown. Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 12 Sep. 2025 While topography will continue to influence fire spread, spotting potential and overall fire intensity are anticipated to be minimal. Ca Wildfire Bot, Sacbee.com, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
Compare that to the share of China's battery electric vehicles at 27% of the auto market, and both the potential and the challenges of India's market become starkly visible. Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 11 Sep. 2025 That potential is drawing attention across US science agencies. Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for potential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential
Adjective
  • The shift has profound implications in House districts across the country, seeping into Democratic primaries as a possible liability for more centrist members.
    David Sivak, The Washington Examiner, 12 Sep. 2025
  • New downloads of Weather are no longer possible on Wear OS 6 devices from third-party manufacturers, such as Samsung, OnePlus and others.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 12 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • But others suggested that with Kirk’s death, any possibility of peacefully bridging the divide between the right and left was now off the table.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Collins, Appropriations Committee chairwoman, is tasked with crafting funding measures and is locked in a battleground reelection fight, potentially strengthening the possibility of an extension.
    Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 11 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Despite a limited sample size, these five draft-eligible prospects have been pleasant surprises in 2025 and have helped their NFL Draft outlooks.
    Dane Brugler, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The press, however—fearing backlash to its positive depiction of interracial romance—rewrote the conclusion without Grey’s knowledge or consent, killing off Nophaie and the offending prospect of miscegenation.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on potential

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