Potential
/pəˈtɛnʃəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe inherent possibility that something will happen or develop in the future.
/pəˈtɛnʃəl/
The inherent ability or capacity for growth or development.
The artist showed great potential in his early work.
💡 Simply: Imagine a seed: it holds the *potential* to become a giant tree, even though it's small now. *Potential* is about what *could* happen.
👶 For kids: The ability to do something in the future.
More Examples
Investing in renewable energy has great potential for the future.
The student's potential was recognized early on by her teachers.
How It's Used
"The company recognized the potential of the new market."
"The scientists studied the potential of the new drug."
"Teachers often try to develop the potential in their students."
Existing in possibility; capable of being or becoming actual.
/pəˈtɛnʃəl/
Capable of coming into being.
The potential problem was identified early on.
💡 Simply: When something is *potential*, it means it's *possible*, but hasn't happened yet. It's like saying, 'This could be great!'
👶 For kids: Something that *might* happen or exist.
More Examples
They are considering the potential effects of the new policy.
There is potential danger in this situation.
How It's Used
"The electric potential difference was measured."
"The potential benefits of this treatment are promising."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
full potential
The maximum capability or capacity.
"She is a skilled athlete who has yet to reach her full potential."
untapped potential
Unused or undeveloped capacity or capability.
"The region has untapped potential for tourism."
potential energy
Energy stored in an object due to its position or condition.
"A rock at the top of a hill has potential energy."
From Late Latin potentia, meaning "power, capacity," derived from potens, present participle of posse "to be able." The word's meaning expanded over time to include capacity, possibility, and latent ability.
The word's usage began to expand in the 17th century, initially within philosophical contexts, and later across a range of fields including science and business.
Memory tip
Think of a hidden power waiting to be unleashed.
Word Origin
"powerful, capable"