LATENT Synonyms: 58 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'latent' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of latent are dormant , potential , and quiescent . While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop. // a latent desire for success

Q: Where would 'dormant' be a reasonable alternative to 'latent'?

While the synonyms dormant and latent are close in meaning, dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping. // their passion had lain dormant

Q: When can 'potential' be used instead of 'latent'?

While in some cases nearly identical to latent , potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have. // a potential disaster

Q: When would 'quiescent' be a good substitute for 'latent'?

In some situations, the words quiescent and latent are roughly equivalent. However, quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity. // the disease was quiescent

latent

adjective

ˈlā-tᵊnt

Definition of latent next

as in dormant

not being in a state of use, activity, or employment he has a latent talent for acting that he hasn't had a chance to express yet

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How is the word latent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of latent are dormant, potential, and quiescent. While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop.

a latent desire for success

Where would dormant be a reasonable alternative to latent?

While the synonyms dormant and latent are close in meaning, dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping.

their passion had lain dormant

When can potential be used instead of latent?

While in some cases nearly identical to latent, potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have.

a potential disaster

When would quiescent be a good substitute for latent?

In some situations, the words quiescent and latent are roughly equivalent. However, quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity.

the disease was quiescent

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of latent Internally of late, the Canucks have harboured some latent concern about their club’s focus level game to game. —

Thomas Drance, The Athletic, 23 Nov. 2024 Crime lab techs recovered two latent prints, including from the exterior of the front driver door, as well as from the radio screen from inside the vehicle, according to court documents. —

Alexa Ashwell, Baltimore Sun, 15 Nov. 2024 These reforms have not just acted as catalysts but as seismic shifts, unlocking the economy's latent potential and positioning India as an attractive destination for global investors. —

Pankaj Vasani, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024 For Gabriela Bacher, an Austrian-American film producer and political campaigner, there are latent parallels between her homeland and former American President Donald Trump. —

Alexander Smith, NBC News, 28 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for latent