potential

[pəˈtɛʃənl]

Definitions

1. noun

the possibility of something happening or being done; a quality or ability that has not yet been realized

“The young athlete had a great deal of potential, but he needed to work harder to achieve his goals.”

2. noun

the maximum or most effective amount of something, especially power or energy

“The engine’s potential was wasted due to the faulty fuel injector.”

3. noun

a possible or hypothetical situation or event

“The company’s potential collapse would have severe consequences for the employees.”

4. verb

to make or become possible or likely

“The new investment will potentially increase our profit margin.”

5. adjective

having or showing the ability or quality to become or be something

“He was a potential winner, but he made a critical mistake during the game.”

6. adverb

in a way that is possible or likely

“The project could potentially be completed in six months.”

Synonyms

  • ability
  • capacity
  • chance
  • likelihood
  • possibility

Antonyms

  • certainty
  • impossibility
  • inevitability