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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.

He addressed repeated questions about a potential return to his boyhood club Barcelona during a news conference, but subsequently reaffirmed his commitment to Chelsea.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

While the cease-fire doesn’t end the war, the analyst views it as the beginning of a potential end.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

In essence, the neighboring sale upped the ante as far as Behar’s listing is concerned—and also encouraged her agents to start thinking about other ways they could prove the home’s potential to prospective buyers.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 8, 2026

Walsh described the country's fleet of 50 widebody aircraft as a "scandal" given its size and growth potential.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

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

From "The Line Tender" by Kate Allen