26984 words

potential

10 definitions • 18 examples
1

Examples:

A number of potential buyers have expressed interest in the company.
Many potential customers are waiting for a fall in prices before buying.
The accident is a grim reminder of the potential dangers involved in North Sea oil production.
2
someone's or something's ability to develop, achieve, or succeed:

Examples:

The region has enormous potential for economic development.
I don't feel I'm achieving my full potential in my present job.
[ + to infinitive ] You have the potential to reach the top of your profession.
I think this room has got a lot of potential (= could be very nice if some changes were made to it).
4
possible but not yet achieved:

Examples:

He was eager to talk with potential customers.
5
Someone’s potential is an ability the person has not yet developed:

Examples:

She keeps saying I should live up to my potential.
6
Potential energy is the energy that something has because of its position and structure, not because of its movement.
7
Electric potential is a measure of the power of electrical energy, measured in volts.
8
able to develop into something in the future when the necessary conditions exist:

Examples:

There are potential problems at every stage of the drug production chain.
A number of potential buyers are thought to have shown interest.
a potential cost/market
9
the possibility of something developing or happening in a particular way:

Examples:

have the potential for sth/to do sth These equity securities are believed to have the potential for high earnings growth.
commercial/economic potential
growth/market/sales potential
10
natural qualities or abilities that mean that someone or something may or should succeed or achieve something:

Examples:

enormous/great/huge potential This marketing idea has great potential.
We have put additional resources into the company to ensure it reaches its full potential in Scotland.
have the potential to be sth He has the potential to be the very best.

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