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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of potential

Adjective

Though the risks of misuse of this technology are real, the potential benefits are enormous. —

Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 5 Nov. 2024 His bucket list for potential clients is long (and includes stars like Lili Reinhart and Kasey Musgraves), but having the platform to support himself as an independent designer has made these kinds of projects possible. —

Sara Belcher, People.com, 5 Nov. 2024

Noun

Researchers are testing the cosmic potential of the renewable material as humans explore living in space. —

Andrew Torgan, CNN, 5 Nov. 2024 Any noncitizen who does faces the potential of felony charges and deportation, a significant disincentive. —

Chris Morris, Fortune, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for potential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential

Adjective

Returning to school as quickly as possible, with appropriate support, and getting light exercise that doesn’t pose a head injury risk are important first steps in concussion recovery, and in line with the latest research.

Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024
The Trust continues to focus on maintaining its investment objective of tracking the Bitwise 10 Large Cap Crypto Index as closely as possible.

Quartz Bot, Quartz, 8 Nov. 2024