PROSPECTIVE Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

prospective

adjective

Definition of prospective

as in potential

likely to be or become something at a later time The school had a luncheon for prospective students.

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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 prospective Rulemaking, whatever its burdens, comes with notice and comment, national application, prospective effect and cost-benefit analysis. — Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026 In 2025, Miami University in Ohio suspended its Kappa Alpha Psi chapter through 2040 after an investigation found prospective new members were subjected to physical abuse, including paddling and caning. — Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 27 July 2026 Hughes, who started in her role in July 2025, attributed the uptick to outreach by faculty, staff and current students to prospective enrollees, including students reaching out with personal notes and on social media. — Amy Lavalley, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026 How a Leaked Exam Sparked a National Movement Over 2 million prospective students had taken the three-hour exam, according to the BBC. — Philip Wang, Time, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for prospective

Recent Examples of Synonyms for prospective

Adjective

Even if a potential Skubal trade wouldn’t have cleaned out their farm system, any loss of quality minor leaguers would have a long-term cost in Tampa Bay that far exceeds any concerns in Los Angeles.

— John Romano, The Orlando Sentinel, 4 Aug. 2026
Importantly, such forecasts give countries early warning of heat waves, droughts, floods and potential disruptions to food supplies, among other outcomes.

— Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of potential

Adjective

However, the ruling has tremendous implications for regional politics--and for any future war between the United States and China.

— Jill Goldenziel, Forbes.com, 30 July 2026
Six months after the Levine Museum of the New South announced its purchase of two South End buildings, The Charlotte Observer got a first look inside the museum’s future home.

— Claire Harutunian, Charlotte Observer, 30 July 2026

Definition of future

Adjective

This gracious grand dame has possibly the best possible address in all of Stockholm, overlooking Strökajen Harbor in the city’s Norrmalm district, a short walk from the Royal Palace and the Old Town.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
Authorities haven't stated a possible cause for the other two fires.

— ABC News, ABC News, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of possible

Browse Nearby Words

prospecting

prospective

prospects

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“Prospective.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prospective. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of prospective

adjective

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