potentiality

noun

po·​ten·​ti·​al·​i·​ty pə-ˌten(t)-shē-ˈa-lə-tē 

plural potentialities

1

: the ability to develop or come into existence

2

: potential sense 1

Synonyms

• capability
• eventuality
• possibility
• potential
• prospect

Examples of potentiality in a Sentence

would like to see a colony on the moon as an actuality and not merely a potentiality

Recent Examples on the Web

Slime is a reoccurring motif in Heaney’s work, characterizing the unstable nature of all things and the self and symbolising potentiality and transformation. —Lee Sharrock, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024

In a striking parallel to the 1990s, epochal thinking about the potentialities of a high technology society has once again upended politics. —Jacob Bruggeman & Casey Eilbert / Made By History, TIME, 3 Mar. 2025

Canter also acknowledged how other decisions could impact the potentiality of some of his players returning. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Feb. 2025

Whatever happens, clearly there is an urgent need for the U.S. government to address such potentialities. —Barbara A. Perry, Newsweek, 28 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for potentiality

• bisexuality
• collegiality
• conditionality
• congeniality
• conventionality
• conviviality
• dimensionality
• directionality
• emotionality
• essentiality
• eventuality
• grammaticality

Kids Definition

potentiality

noun

po·​ten·​ti·​al·​i·​ty pə-ˌten-chē-ˈal-ət-ē 

plural potentialities

1

: the ability to develop or to come into existence

2

: potential entry 2 sense 1a