Potential Meaning and Definition
Potential
Pronunciation
/pəˈtenʃəl/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Something that can or might happen or exist in the future; something that is possible or likely to occur.
Examples
- The new employee has great potential to become a team leader.
- The city’s potential for growth is huge.
Synonyms
- Capacity
- Ability
- Opportunity
Antonyms
- Impotency
- Lack
- Barrier
Etymology
The word “Potential” has its roots in Latin, where “potens” means “powerful” or “having power.”
Usage Notes
When using the word “Potential”, it’s important to consider the context in which it’s being used. For example, in a financial context, “Potential” might refer to an investment opportunity, while in a personal context, it might refer to a person’s ability to achieve something.
Cultural References
Potential has been referenced in various cultural works, such as song lyrics and literature.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Unlock one’s potential” – to realize or develop one’s abilities
- “Tap into one’s potential” – to use one’s abilities or strengths to achieve something
Related Words or Phrases
- Capacity
- Ability
- Opportunity
- Chance
Collocations
- Potential for
- Potential in
- Potential to
Frequency of Use
Potential is a commonly used word in modern language, particularly in business and educational contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Potental
- Potenciel
- Potensial