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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.

For resourceful parents, children present a massive potential for ad sponsorships.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

He recommended potential cat owners to choose a pet that would "thrive within the environment and lifestyle you can offer rather than attempting to force the cat to adjust".

From BBC • 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

This time we will look for evidence of habitability and for potential signs of life.

From Science Daily • Apr. 3, 2026

One day on an airplane, he confided to me that he thought of all our fellow passengers as potential patients.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

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