Potency: meaning, definitions and examples

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potency

[ˈpoʊtənsi ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medical

The power or capacity to produce a specific effect, especially a chemical or medicinal effect.

Synonyms

effectiveness, efficacy, power, strength.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
potency	Often used in a medical or chemical context to describe the strength or power of a substance, especially drugs. The potency of the new drug is incredible. They tested the potency of different plant extracts.
efficacy	Primarily used in a scientific or clinical context to describe the ability of a product, like medicine, to produce the desired effect. The efficacy of the new treatment was confirmed in clinical trials. Researchers are evaluating the efficacy of the new intervention.
effectiveness	Generally used to describe how well something achieves its intended purpose or outcome in various contexts like work, study, or medicine. The effectiveness of the training program is evident from the improved performance of the employees. Studies show the effectiveness of the vaccine in preventing the disease.
strength	Typically refers to the attribute of being physically strong, but can also describe mental resilience or the degree of a certain attribute or quality. He showed great strength in lifting the heavy weights. Her strength in difficult situations is remarkable.
power	Broadly used in both literal and figurative ways to describe the capability or influence of someone or something. It can be used in politics, physical strength, or technology. The power of the new engine is astonishing. She has the power to make significant changes in the company.

Examples of usage

The potency of this medicine is highly effective in treating severe pain.
His research focused on the potency of different herbal remedies.
The potency of the vaccine was tested in clinical trials.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

The strength or force of something, often in terms of influence or impact.

Synonyms

authority, dominance, impact, influence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
potency	Typically used to describe the strength or efficacy of something, especially in medical or biological contexts. The potency of the new drug was demonstrated in the clinical trials. He questioned the potency of her arguments.
impact	Denotes a strong effect or influence something has on a situation or person, often used in discussions about changes or significant events. The impact of the new policy was felt immediately. His speech made a profound impact on the audience.
influence	Typically used to describe the ability to affect the behavior, development, or thinking of someone or something. Her influence on modern art is widely recognized. He has a lot of influence in political circles.
authority	Refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. She has the authority to sign contracts on behalf of the company. He spoke with great authority on the subject.
dominance	Describes a state of having control or power over others, often used in contexts of competition or social hierarchies. May carry a slightly negative connotation. The dominance of the tech giants is undeniable in today's market. Her dominance in the tennis world has been unchallenged for years.

Examples of usage

The political potency of the speech was evident in the response of the audience.
The potency of his arguments persuaded many to change their views.
Her leadership skills demonstrated a great level of potency.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'potentia', which means power or ability.
The term was used in Middle English around the 14th century, often in reference to authority or capability.
In various contexts, including legal texts, it has come to reflect not just physical strength but also influence and effectiveness.

Science

In pharmacology, potency refers to the strength of a drug's effect relative to its dose, implying that a small amount can have a significant impact.
The potency of a chemical can determine how it interacts with biological systems, making it crucial in drug development.
Research shows that different solvents can affect the potency of natural compounds, emphasizing the importance of preparation in science.

Psychology

In psychology, the concept is often linked to the effectiveness or influence of various therapeutic techniques on patient outcomes.
Studies suggest potency in communication skills can enhance negotiations, showing how persuasive someone is can significantly impact results.
The perception of personal potency, or self-efficacy, greatly affects motivation and behavior among individuals in goal-setting scenarios.

Cultural Significance

In various cultures, potency is celebrated in rituals and practices, symbolizing strength and vitality, like in fertility rites.
The notion of potency has historical roots in discussions around leadership, where a potent leader was seen as a powerful and effective ruler.
In literature, characters exhibiting great potency often face moral dilemmas that test their strength, both physically and ethically.

Literature

Potency is often a theme in classical literature, where it can signify not just physical might but also intellectual and emotional strength.
Writers like Shakespeare used characters to explore the concept of potency in relationships, illustrating power dynamics.
Contemporary literature often addresses the idea of potency in the context of identity and personal power, pushing boundaries around traditional roles.

Translations

Translations of the word "potency" in other languages:

🇵🇹 potência

🇮🇳 शक्ति

🇩🇪 Potenz

🇮🇩 potensi

🇺🇦 потенція

🇵🇱 potencja

🇯🇵 効力

🇫🇷 puissance

🇪🇸 potencia

🇹🇷 potansiyel

🇰🇷 효능

🇸🇦 قوة

🇨🇿 potence

🇸🇰 potencia

🇨🇳 效力

🇸🇮 moč

🇮🇸 máttur

🇰🇿 құдірет

🇬🇪 ძალა

🇦🇿 güclü

🇲🇽 potencia

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,561, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
10558 generously
10559 animation
10560 guaranty
10561 potency
10562 atrophy
10563 yen
10564 spider
...