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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
The price is usually very low which attracts a lot of potential renters. Steve Weisman, Forbes.com, 12 July 2025 Two potential witnesses, William Searfoss, a corrections officer, and Maggie Sanders, who works at the local school district as a school psychologist, also had hearings scheduled next week. Laurie Mason Schroeder, Idaho Statesman, 1 July 2025
Noun
The potential for investment in the BVI is immense, particularly in tourism. Panorama Media Ltd, Miami Herald, 14 July 2025 In that moment, Brink’s agility, versatility, length and potential was on full display. John W. Davis, Oc Register, 13 July 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
  • One such rumor: a possible acquisition of Perplexity, the AI-native search engine.
    Jim Edwards, Fortune, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • The appearance of The Punisher also seems to open up some possibilities of other character collaborations like Daredevil or Jessica Jones.
    Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • There are, however, a few possibilities that can be gleaned from the very limited information that has been released to the public.
    Chris Spargo, People.com, 14 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 18 Jul. 2025.

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