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potential

When used as an adjective, "potential" usually comes before the noun it describes (e.g., "potential customers"). It describes something that is possible but has not happened yet. As a noun referring to ability, it is often used with verbs like "reach," "fulfill," or "unlock." For example, you can "reach your full potential." In scientific contexts, specifically physics, the word is used as a technical term for stored energy and is almost always paired with words like "energy" or "difference."

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, David is at the office and Karen is browsing Zillow on her phone.

Karen Smith

Look at this fixer-upper. It's a total dump but has so much potential.

David Smith

Don't get carried away. We can't afford to sink any more cash into a pit.

💡

Karen uses 'potential' as a noun meaning latent qualities that could lead to future success (in this case, a renovated home). David responds with the phrasal verb 'carried away' (becoming overly excited) and the idiom 'sink cash into a pit' (spending money on something that provides no return).

Meanings

adjective

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

"The company is looking for potential investors to fund the new project."

noun

Having latent qualities or abilities that may be developed and lead to future success or usefulness.

"The young athlete has the potential to become an Olympic champion."

noun

In physics, the amount of energy that a body possesses by virtue of its position.

"The ball at the top of the hill has high gravitational potential energy."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026•Report an Error