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Definitions

potential

[puh-ten-shuhl] / pəˈtɛn ʃəl /
ADJECTIVE
promising
Synonyms
STRONGEST
hidden likely possible probable
STRONG
budding future
WEAK
abeyant conceivable dormant embryonic imaginable implied inherent latent lurking plausible prepatent quiescent thinkable undeveloped unrealized within realm of possibility
Antonyms
STRONGEST
unlikely
WEAK
helpless impossible lacking unpromising
NOUN
possibility for achievement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ability capability capacity potentiality power
STRONG
aptitude arete wherewithal
WEAK
the makings what it takes
Antonyms
STRONGEST
impotence inability incompetence weakness
WEAK
impossible lack

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

When certain family members, including John Robinson, began to explore a potential company sale, Allan in May 2024 filed a breach-of-contract suit in a local Ohio court.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Bubble Wrap, vulcanized rubber and Post-it Notes also emerged when inventors recognized potential in unexpected outcomes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Earlier this year Usyk floated Wilder as a potential future opponent, and a victory here at least keeps that possibility alive.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

The announcement that Mohamed Salah will leave in the summer, while significant, was not a surprise and had the potential to galvanise fans and players alike to give a club legend a memorable send off.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

Fred would have already generated a short list of potential candidates.

From "The Line Tender" by Kate Allen

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.