as in possible
existing only as a possibility and not in fact
I can see a few potential problems with co-owning a beach house with another couple
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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
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
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
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
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
-
Don’t try to work as explosively as possible; instead, focus on proper form and mastering the movement pattern.—
Jenny McCoy,
SELF,
15 July 2025
-
This new licensing platform expands our ability to reach and engage our fan community on Roblox in the deepest way possible – by working directly with them!—
Jennifer Maas,
Variety,
15 July 2025
Noun
-
Indianapolis City-County Council members are also discussing the possibility of fines and mandatory parenting classes for parents and guardians whose children repeatedly violate the new rules.—
Jordan Smith,
IndyStar,
14 July 2025
-
Others wanted to consider the possibility of technological advancements.—
Daniel I. Dorfman,
Chicago Tribune,
14 July 2025
Noun
-
Gaskins said the policy change benefits the city’s prospects for hosting major league professional and elite amateur teams in the future, and, at the same time, provides young residents and visitors with opportunities to participate in evening sports.—
Lee Igel,
Forbes.com,
14 July 2025
-
Carlson, a Tennessee commit, was listed as the No. 7 prospect for the draft by MLB.com.—
LaMond Pope,
Chicago Tribune,
14 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share