Potentially

Definition

Potentially refers to the capacity or possibility of something occurring or developing in a particular way.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb: potentially (e.g., "That is potentially dangerous.")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈtɛnʃəli/
• Respelling: puh-TEN-shuh-lee (with "puh" as in "supper," "TEN" as in "ten," "shuh" as in "usher," and "lee" as in "lee")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈtɛnʃəli/
• Respelling: puh-TEN-shuh-lee (similar to American English, with "puh" as in "supper," "TEN" as in "ten," "shuh" as in "usher," and "lee" as in "lee")

In both dialects, "potentially" is pronounced with the primary stress on the second syllable, "TEN." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating the word with emphasis on the "TEN" part.

Etymology

The word "potentially" is derived from the Latin "potentialis," which comes from "potentia" meaning "power." Thus, it refers to the capacity or power of something to happen or change.

Derivatives

• Potential
• Potentiate
• Potentiometer
• Potentiation
• Potentiate

Synonyms

• Possibly
• Maybe
• Conceivably

Antonyms

• Certainly
• Definitely
• Unquestionably

Usage

"Potentially" is often used to express that something might happen, but it is not guaranteed. It signifies uncertainty or that the final outcome is dependent on certain conditions or factors.

Related Terms

• Probability
• Possibility
• Hypothetical
• Theoretically
• Contingent upon

Detailed Definition

Adverb

• In a manner that signifies potential; with the capacity or possibility of becoming or happening.
• Example: "Potentially harmful chemicals should be handled with care."

• Used to express the possibility of something occurring, often emphasizing the uncertainty of the outcome.
• Example: "While it looks promising, there are potentially several hurdles to overcome."