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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
This tweet was Thug’s first time acknowledging the potential album and title on social media. Armon Sadler, VIBE.com, 8 Apr. 2025 The win came after a dramatic final sequence where Houston's potential game-tying shot attempt never materialized as time expired, setting off a celebration for the Gators, who overcame a 12-point second-half deficit. Analisa Novak, CBS News, 8 Apr. 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
  • The six-year initiative, ending in November 2025, aims to shed light on the possible timeframes during which Mars might have been warm and wet, covered in glaciers, and maybe even suitable for life.
    Jonathan O’Callaghan, JSTOR Daily, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Fans began speculating about a possible Thug album dropping later that night.
    Andre Gee, Rolling Stone, 10 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Vallow Daybell was sentenced to multiple life terms in prison without the possibility of parole.
    Bill Chappell, NPR, 9 Apr. 2025
  • In a new interview with Bill Apter of Sportskeeda, Luger was asked about the possibility of having Sting and Diamond Dallas Page on hand at the Hall of Fame.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • This can include damage to credit scores, along with the prospect of penalties and collection activities including the seizure of wages, tax refunds, and even Social Security benefits.
    Robert Farrington, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • But the $10 million donation, made shortly after the Sept. 27, 2024, settlement was signed, was never disclosed to lawmakers — raising the prospect that the DeSantis administration unilaterally steered millions of taxpayer dollars to the first lady’s initiative.
    Alexandra Glorioso, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on potential

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