Potential

Definition

The term "potential" describes the capacity or ability to develop, achieve, or become something in the future.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈtɛn.ʃəl/
• Respelling: puh-TEN-shul

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈtɛn.ʃəl/
• Respelling: puh-TEN-shul

Etymology

The word "potential" originates from the Latin "potentialis," meaning "powerful," derived from "potentia" (power or capacity) and "potens" (being able). It entered Middle English through Old French "potentiel."

Derivatives

• Potentially (adverb)
• Potency (noun)
• Potent (adjective)
• Impotential (adjective)
• Potentiate (verb)

Synonyms

• Capability
• Possibility
• Promise

Antonyms

• Impossibility
• Inability
• None

Usage

The term "potential" is widely used to indicate latent ability or capacity. For example, "The new employee has great potential for leadership" or "The experiment has the potential to revolutionize energy production."

Related Terms

• Possibility: The condition or fact of being possible.
• Capability: The power or ability to do something.
• Latent: Existing but not yet developed or manifest.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The inherent ability or capacity for growth or success: Refers to something that could develop or happen in the future.
  • Example: "She has the potential to become an excellent musician."
• Physics: Stored energy that can be converted into work: Refers to energy possessed by a body due to its position or configuration.
  • Example: "The rock at the edge of the cliff has gravitational potential energy."

Adjective

• Capable of becoming or being: Refers to something that may occur or be developed in the future.
  • Example: "This is a potential solution to the problem."