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English Lexicon

Potential

/pəˈtɛn.ʃəl/
nounadjectiveCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #950 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    The inherent ability or capacity for growth, development, or future success.

    "She has the potential to become a great leader."
As adjective
  1. 1

    Having or showing the capacity to develop into something in the future.

    "The potential benefits of the new technology are significant."
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Thesaurus & Semantic Spectrum

Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

Derived from the Late Latin potentialis, stemming from potentia meaning 'power' or 'might', which originates from the Latin verb posse 'to be able'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century initially as an adjective denoting latent capacity, eventually expanding into a noun signifying unrealized ability or future capability.

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