Potentially: meaning, definitions and examples

🤔

Add to dictionary

potentially

[pəˈtɛnʃəli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

in the realm of possibility

Possibly but not certainly; potentially

Synonyms

maybe, perhaps, possibly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
potentially	Use 'potentially' when there is a possibility of something happening, often emphasizing uncertainty yet acknowledging the potential for occurrence. This job could potentially lead to a promotion. He could potentially be the next CEO.
possibly	Use 'possibly' when you are less certain about an outcome and want to indicate that something could happen. We could possibly find a solution by tomorrow. She might possibly come to the party.
maybe	Use 'maybe' in casual conversations to express uncertainty or when options are being considered. Maybe we should go to the beach tomorrow. Do you think it'll rain? Maybe.
perhaps	Use 'perhaps' when you want to express uncertainty in a more formal or polite manner. Perhaps we could discuss this further. He will, perhaps, join us for dinner.

Examples of usage

It is potentially the best method for this problem.
There is potentially a chance of rain later.
She is potentially a great athlete.
The project could potentially be completed by next week.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

in a possible or potential manner

With the possibility of becoming actual; potentially

Synonyms

perhaps, possibly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
potentially	Used to discuss something that could happen in the future, especially when the outcome is uncertain but carries some significance or risk. This investment could potentially yield high returns. The new policy is potentially harmful to small businesses.
possibly	Used to indicate that something might happen or be true, but there is doubt. Often interchangeable with 'perhaps' but suggests slightly more uncertainty. He might possibly be late to the meeting. Is this possibly the right direction to the museum?
perhaps	Often used to express uncertainty or make suggestions without strong commitment, can be used in casual conversation or formal writing. Perhaps we should try a different approach. She is perhaps the best candidate for the job.

Word

Description / Examples

potentially

Used to discuss something that could happen in the future, especially when the outcome is uncertain but carries some significance or risk.

This investment could potentially yield high returns.
The new policy is potentially harmful to small businesses.

possibly

Used to indicate that something might happen or be true, but there is doubt. Often interchangeable with 'perhaps' but suggests slightly more uncertainty.

He might possibly be late to the meeting.
Is this possibly the right direction to the museum?

perhaps

Often used to express uncertainty or make suggestions without strong commitment, can be used in casual conversation or formal writing.

Perhaps we should try a different approach.
She is perhaps the best candidate for the job.

Examples of usage

He could potentially become the next president.
The new technology is potentially revolutionary.
This discovery could potentially change the course of history.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'potentia,' meaning power or ability.
It entered the English language in the late 14th century, widening the meaning around abilities and possibilities.
In English, it combines 'potential' with the adverb-forming suffix '-ly', indicating the manner of being potential.

Science

In physics, 'potential energy' refers to stored energy that has the potential to do work when released.
The concept of potential is essential in fields like psychology and education, helping to identify innate abilities.
In genetics, the term often refers to the capacity of organisms to adapt or evolve, allowing species to survive in changing environments.

Pop Culture

The idea of potential is often explored in films and books, where characters discover their hidden talents.
In music, many artists speak of their potential, highlighting how success isn't just about talent but also opportunity.
'Potentially' appears in motivational speeches emphasizing the importance of believing in one's abilities.

Psychology

The concept is frequently linked to growth mindset theories, where individuals focus on their ability to develop skills over time.
In positive psychology, recognizing one's potential is vital for fostering resilience and motivation.
Counseling often encourages individuals to explore their potential, aiming to boost self-esteem and drive.

Literature

Literature frequently addresses themes of potential, often depicting characters who achieve greatness against odds.
Poets utilize the concept to evoke feelings of hope, reflecting on what could be rather than what is.
Many literary works challenge societal norms to explore human potential beyond given limitations.

Translations

Translations of the word "potentially" in other languages:

🇵🇹 potencialmente

🇮🇳 संभावित रूप से

🇩🇪 potenziell

🇮🇩 berpotensi

🇺🇦 потенційно

🇵🇱 potencjalnie

🇯🇵 潜在的に

🇫🇷 potentiellement

🇪🇸 potencialmente

🇹🇷 potansiyel olarak

🇰🇷 잠재적으로

🇸🇦 إمكانياً

🇨🇿 potenciálně

🇸🇰 potenciálne

🇨🇳 潜在地

🇸🇮 potencialno

🇮🇸 mögulega

🇰🇿 потенциалды түрде

🇬🇪 პოტენციურად

🇦🇿 potensial olaraq

🇲🇽 potencialmente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,011, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

...
4008 glance
4009 treasurer
4010 undertake
4011 potentially
4012 specialized
4013 seats
4014 profound
...