B2adverb2K

Potentially

UK /["/pəˈtenʃəli/"]/US /["/pəˈtenʃəli/"]/

Definition

used to say that something may develop into something

In simple words: It means something might happen or could be true.

Examples

  • a potentially dangerous situation

Usage notes

Use 'potentially' when discussing possibilities or probabilities. It's suitable for both spoken and written English but may feel too formal in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'potential' and 'tentially' — it’s all about possibilities!

Collocations

  • potentially dangerous
  • potentially useful
  • potentially harmful
  • potentially beneficial
  • potentially effective

Synonyms

  • possibly (1)

Antonyms

  • definitely
  • certainly

Common mistakes

  • Using 'potentially' in place of 'actually'
  • Confusing 'potentially' with 'probably'
  • Overusing 'potentially' in informal speech