German Conversation · Level 42
75 words
German word
potenziell
Pronunciation
IPA/potɛnˈtsi̯ɛl/
Meaning
- adjectivepotential
Example
Das ist ein potenzielles Problem.
That is a potential problem.
More examples
Wir haben nur potenzielle Bedenken, kein akutes Problem.
We only have potential concerns, not an acute problem.
Core concept
A seed contains the conditions for a plant, although no plant has emerged.
Common phrases
ein potenzielles Risiko
a potential risk
potenzielle Ursache
potential cause
Similar words
möglich: Within the bounds of what can happen or be done.
eventuell: Might happen under certain circumstances, without being certain.
Definition in German
So beschaffen, dass etwas möglich ist, aber noch nicht realisiert oder sicher eingetreten
Word origin
Potenziell comes from Latin potentialis, based on potentia meaning 'power' or 'possibility'.
Usage tips
- As an attributive adjective, potenziell takes normal endings, as in ein potenzielles Problem and ein potenzieller Fehler.