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

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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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

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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

Example 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

Last week, the city's Planning Commission recommended placing an indefinite moratorium on new personal storage facilities while the city considers potential changes to its rules. — James Taylor, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 There is even a brief potential window for a few tiny raindrops in the Sacramento area Wednesday, although any rain on the radar is unlikely to reach the ground. — Sean MacAday, Sacbee.com, 10 Aug. 2026

Noun

The storm system Tuesday also brought winds that reached 115 mph, with potential for winds as high as 120. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 Veen told The Denver Post in April that his goal for this season was to stay healthy and start to fully realize his potential on the diamond. — Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for potential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential

Adjective

Mangione's lawyers and federal prosecutors in Manhattan also discussed a possible guilty plea in his federal case in June, sources previously told ABC News.

— Peter Charalambous, ABC News, 11 Aug. 2026
With an address right in the heart of Paris, this place is ideal for first-timers who want to see as much as possible, or art lovers who are in town specifically to see the Louvre.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of possible

Noun

When asked about that possibility following the trade deadline, Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow notably didn’t rule it out.

— Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 9 Aug. 2026
Running a red light in Texas is a Class C misdemeanor that carries a fine between $155 and $286, along with the possibility of higher insurance costs.

— Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Aug. 2026

Definition of possibility

Noun

Wide receiver Major Floyd and defensive back Bryson Hazley, both juniors, are top-250 national prospects for a team coming off a 3-8 finish.

— Todd Holcomb, AJC.com, 9 Aug. 2026
And for a generation scarred by Covid, wars, and the risk of AI, now worrying over job prospects, demand for safety, security, and certainty may be at an all-time high.

— Ryan Craig, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2026

Definition of prospect

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potentates

potential

potentialities

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“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 12 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of potential

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