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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
Some European countries are more comfortable with a potential deployment than others — not least because a big unknown is whether Trump would allow American forces and intelligence agencies to back up any European contingent with air and logistical support and other assistance. John Leicester, Chicago Tribune, 27 Mar. 2025 Some European countries are more comfortable with a potential deployment than others — not least because a big unknown is whether Trump would allow U.S. forces and intelligence agencies to back up any European contingent with air and logistical support and other assistance. Time, 27 Mar. 2025
Noun
The potential for showers and thunderstorms in this region is expected to continue through the afternoon, with the threat ending Friday evening, forecasts show. Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 28 Mar. 2025 Similar to the start of spring, there's untapped potential; for that one day, (almost) everyone has the same record and chance at lifting the big trophy. Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for potential
Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential
Adjective
  • As for the future of the show, Barbato and Bailey say anything is possible, including a potential second show and a Broadway expansion.
    Lawrence Yee, People.com, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Longer-term, a statue for Howe and a physical commemoration for Guimaraes, the captain, among others, could follow, with Freemen of Newcastle-upon-Tyne status also possible for some of the main protagonists.
    Chris Waugh, The Athletic, 18 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Even if this bird flu doesn’t eventually become the p-word, other pandemic possibilities will likely emerge in the coming years.
    Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 30 Mar. 2025
  • The Gilded Age actress was coy, however, when asked about the possibility of a third installment.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 29 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Ranked as Cincinnati’s top prospect this year by MLB Pipeline, Burns made his pro debut March 6 against the Texas Rangers.
    Chuck Murr, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • The Kansas City Royals assigned top prospect Jac Caglianone to minor-league camp on Monday.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 17 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on potential

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