WordGarden.iopotential
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /pətˈɛnʃəl/
US
- /pəˈtɛnʃəl/
Meanings
Adjective
possible, capable of happening, or likely to develop in the future
Noun
latent ability, capacity, or room for development
a scalar quantity such as electric potential in physics
Beyond the definition
Potential isn't what is—it's what could be. A seed has the potential to become a towering tree, but it requires water and sunlight to get there. You have the potential to learn a new language, write a novel, or even run a marathon; those abilities are already within you, waiting to be unlocked!
We talk about someone having "high potential" when they show promise for great things. However, potential is not always realized; a brilliant idea might remain just that—potential—if no one acts on it. Think of a sculptor looking at a block of marble: they see not just a stone, but the potential for a beautiful statue hidden within.
The word "potential" refers to having the possibility or capability to develop into something in the future. It is about what could happen, rather than what is currently happening. For example, saying "This new technology has the potential to revolutionize healthcare" means it possesses the capacity to significantly change how we approach medicine.
Potential can apply to people, objects, ideas, and situations. We often use it when discussing talent: "She has a lot of potential as a musician." This suggests she has the natural ability needed to succeed but still requires training and experience to reach her full level.
However, potential isn't limited to personal talent. A situation can also have potential—for instance, saying "The peace talks have the potential for success" means there is a realistic chance they could lead to a positive outcome. We also speak of "untapped potential," which refers to abilities or resources that are currently not being used to their full extent.
In physics and chemistry, "potential energy" is stored energy that has the capacity to do work, such as water held behind a dam. This scientific meaning highlights the core essence of the word: something waiting to be released or activated. Whether you are talking about a person's future, a promising opportunity, or stored energy, "potential" always points toward what could be, hinting at possibilities waiting to unfold.
Examples
- 1
Scheduling risk
There is a potential problem with the new schedule.
- 2
Business buyers
The company is talking to several potential buyers.
- 3
Medical risks
The medicine has some potential side effects.
- 4
Future ability
Maya has the potential to become a great teacher.
- Patternhave the potential to + verb
can develop in that way in the future
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Possible confusion
There is potential for confusion if both buttons look the same.
- Patternpotential for + event/problem
a chance that it may happen or develop
- 6
Promising plan
The plan sounds simple, but it has potential.
- Phrasehas potential
seems likely to become good or successful
- 7
Underachievement
He is talented, but he is not living up to his potential.
- Phraselive up to your potential
do as well as people believe you can
- 8
Training growth
With better training, the team could reach its full potential.
- Phrasereach your full potential
become as good as you can be
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- potential problem
- potential customer
- potential risk
- potential benefit
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- potentialnounadjective
Forms
- potentialspluralnounadjective