adjective [not gradable] possible when the necessary conditions exist
She is widely regarded as a potential Olympic gold medallist.
A number of potential buyers have expressed interest in the company.
Both potential bidders have experience of the hotel industry.
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.
potential
noun [U] Someone's potential is their ability to develop, achieve or succeed.
The growth potential of the company is reflected in the high price of its shares.
The region has enormous potential for economic development but a lot of investment is needed to achieve this.
I don't feel I'm achieving my full potential in my present job.
You have the potential to reach the top of your profession if you want to. [+ to infinitive]
The new management intends to realize the untapped potential (=use the potential which is not being used at present) of the workforce.
I think this room has got a lot of potential (=could be very good if some changes were made to it).
potentiality
noun FORMAL The potentiality of a thing or person is an ability for development, achievement or success which is natural or has not been used.
This whole coastline has tremendous potentiality for hotel development. [U]
The army's potentiality to intervene in politics remains strong. [U + to infinitive]
The allies' main war objective is to end his country's potentialities as a military threat to neighbouring countries. [C]
potentially
adverb [not gradable] Hepatitis is a potentially fatal disease.
Chain saws are potentially the most dangerous item of garden equipment.
This is a potentially lucrative agreement which could earn us millions of pounds over the next few years.
A potentially damaging situation has been avoided by the government.
This crisis is potentially the most serious in the organization's history.