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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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

Against a palette of frequently stringent, turbid sounds, each live strike of his keyboard activates a rush of feeling and potential. —

H.d. Angel, Pitchfork, 16 June 2026 The opportunity for a potential cameo though remains on the table, said sources. —

Jami Ganz, New York Daily News, 16 June 2026

Noun

Michael Tran, a sociologist who co-authored the report, noted that the film’s impact and earnings potential could have been even greater with a theatrical release. —

Los Angeles Times, 17 June 2026 Bueckers and the Wings are also off to a strong start (9-5) and seem to be realizing the potential that had WNBA general mangers saying the team would be the league’s most improved. —

Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for potential

Recent Examples of Synonyms for potential

Adjective

Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible.

— CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 17 June 2026
Tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area beginning early Wednesday, and are expected within the warning area beginning later on Wednesday.

— MIAMI HERALD HURRICANE BOT, Miami Herald, 17 June 2026

Definition of possible

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“Potential.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/potential. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.

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