potentially
English meaning: Potentially
Definition
In a manner showing much potential; with the possibility of happening in a given way.
Example
“Mixing these two chemicals is potentially dangerous.”
Another example: “The new technology is potentially worth billions to the company.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A common adverb meaning possibly, with the capacity to develop in a certain way. Neutral register; very common in cautious or hedged statements ('potentially dangerous', 'potentially lucrative').
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From 'potential' plus '-ly', from Late Latin 'potentialis', from Latin 'potentia' (power), from 'posse' (to be able); 19th century.
Synonyms
- possibly
- conceivably
- feasibly
- theoretically
Antonyms / Opposites
Related Words
Common Collocations
- potentially dangerous
- potentially fatal
- potentially lucrative
- potentially harmful
- potentially serious
- potentially huge
Word Forms
potential (adj/n); potentially (adv)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
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Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B