German word

Potenzial

Pronunciation

IPA/potɛnˈtsi̯aːl/

Meaning

  • neuter nounpotential

Example

Die Firma nutzt die Potenziale ihrer Mitarbeiter.

The company harnesses its employees' potential.

Illustration for Potenzial (potential)

More examples

Er hat hohes Potenzial, aber wenig Erfahrung.

He has high potential, but little experience.

Core concept

A hidden store of power that has not yet produced its full results but could support future success.

Common phrases

  • hohes Potenzial

    high potential

  • Potenzial entfalten

    develop potential

  • Potenzial zeigen

    show potential

Similar words

Fähigkeit: A concrete ability or skill that can be used now.
Talent: A natural aptitude for doing something especially well.
Möglichkeit: A state in which something can happen or be achieved.
Chance: A favorable opportunity or prospect for success.

Definition in German

Potenzial bezeichnet die vorhandene oder noch nicht ausgeschöpfte Fähigkeit oder Kraft einer Person, Organisation oder Sache.

Word origin

The German noun comes from Latin potentia, meaning power or capability, which entered learned usage as a term for possible or developing capacity.

Usage tips

  • "Er hat Potenzial" usually praises someone's promise or ability to develop, rather than describing fully demonstrated success already.

Other meanings

  • promisenoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word