POTENTIAL Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

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

Some common synonyms of potential are dormant , latent , and quiescent . While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have. // a potential disaster

Q: When is it sensible to use 'dormant' instead of 'potential'?

The words dormant and potential can be used in similar contexts, but dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping. // their passion had lain dormant

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

While the synonyms latent and potential are close in meaning, latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop. // a latent desire for success

Q: In what contexts can 'quiescent' take the place of 'potential'?

While in some cases nearly identical to potential , quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity. // the disease was quiescent

potential 1 of 2

adjective

pə-ˈten(t)-shəl

Definition of potential next

as in possible

existing only as a possibility and not in fact I can see a few potential problems with co-owning a beach house with another couple

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

potential

2 of 2

noun

as in possibility

something that can develop or become actual a time when cloning was merely a potential and the stuff of science fiction

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word potential distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of potential are dormant, latent, and quiescent. While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have.

a potential disaster

When is it sensible to use dormant instead of potential?

The words dormant and potential can be used in similar contexts, but dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping.

their passion had lain dormant

Where would latent be a reasonable alternative to potential?

While the synonyms latent and potential are close in meaning, latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop.

a latent desire for success

In what contexts can quiescent take the place of potential?

While in some cases nearly identical to potential, quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity.

the disease was quiescent

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of potential

Adjective

Andy Beshear vetted as potential Kamala Harris running mate The national spotlight was Gov. Beshear at the end of July when Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential campaign vetted him as a potential running mate. —

Hannah Pinski, The Courier-Journal, 27 Dec. 2024 The loss dropped the Rams’ record to 0-2 en route to a 1-4 start that had coach Sean McVay’s team on the brink of potential playoff oblivion. —

Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times, 27 Dec. 2024

Noun

He’s been banned from leaving South Korea, but observers doubt that authorities will detain him because of the potential for clashes with his presidential security service. —

Hyung-Jin Kim and Kim Tong-Hyung, Los Angeles Times, 15 Dec. 2024 Even small drones pose significant risks, including the potential for catastrophic damage to airplanes and helicopters. —

Eric Levenson, CNN, 15 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for potential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential

Adjective

People can stay safe from possible carbon monoxide poisoning by taking precautionary measures.

Kayla Jimenez, USA TODAY, 19 Dec. 2024
So the realization that Gaetz—a troll of the first order and a foil for Establishment-minded stalwarts in both parties—is seen as a possible anchor for the current moment is telling.

Philip Elliott, TIME, 18 Dec. 2024