potentially
word
/pəˈtɛnʃəɫi/
puh-TEN-shuh-lee
/pətˈɛnʃəlˌi/
puh-TEN-shuh-lee
Definition
Used to say that something might happen or could be true, even if it is not certain.
Usage & Nuances
Moderately formal and common in both speech and writing. Typically used before adjectives or verbs: 'potentially dangerous', 'could potentially happen'. Signals possibility, not certainty. Don't confuse with 'possibly,' which is less strong.
Spanish: potencialmentePortuguese (BR): potencialmentePortuguese (PT): potencialmenteChinese (Simplified): 有可能地 - 潛在地Chinese (Traditional): 有可能地 - 潛在地Hindi: संभावित रूप सेArabic: من المحتملBengali: সম্ভাব্যভাবে - সম্ভাবনাময়ভাবেRussian: потенциальноJapanese: 潜在的にVietnamese: có thể - tiềm năngKorean: 잠재적으로Turkish: potansiyel olarakUrdu: امکانی طور پرIndonesian: secara potensial
Example Sentences
This medicine is potentially dangerous if used incorrectly.
basic
He could potentially win the competition.
basic
The changes will potentially help many people.
basic
It’s potentially a great opportunity, so think carefully before you say no.
natural
We’re potentially looking at serious delays if the weather gets worse.
natural
That deal could potentially change everything for our company.
natural