potential
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potential
Expresses that something is possible or conceivable, but does not yet exist or has not yet happened. It describes an existing possibility or ability.
Jeder Bewerber ist ein potentieller neuer Mitarbeiter für unsere Firma.
Every applicant is a potential new employee for our company.
The adjective 'potentiell' (potential) is closely related to the noun 'das Potential' (potential). Both words describe a possibility or an ability that has not yet been realized.
In diesem jungen Spieler steckt großes Potential.
There is great potential in this young player.
'Potentiell' (potential/potentially) can be used both as an adjective before a noun and as an adverb to describe a verb or adjective. As an adverb, it remains unchanged.
Wir haben eine Liste potentieller Probleme erstellt.
We created a list of potential problems.
'Potentiell' (potential) is often used to point to possible future developments. Common combinations are: 'potentielle Gefahr' (potential danger), 'potentieller Kunde' (potential customer), or 'potentieller Nachfolger' (potential successor).
Jeder Kontakt auf der Messe ist ein potentieller Kunde.
Every contact at the trade fair is a potential customer.
The word 'potentiell' (potential) belongs more to written language or more formal usage. It often sounds more objective and precise than the word 'möglich' (possible).
Die Studie untersucht die potentiellen Auswirkungen des Klimawandels.
The study examines the potential effects of climate change.
possible
'möglich' and 'potentiell' both describe something that can happen or is conceivable. 'möglich' is more general and very common: it can mean that something is feasible, or that something may be true. 'potentiell' is used more when something has not actually happened yet, but has the possibility or ability to do so. It sounds somewhat more formal and often fits with risks, opportunities, customers, or problems. In everyday language, 'möglich' is usually more natural; 'potentiell' is more precise when you want to emphasize a possibility that has not yet been realized.
Diese Firma sieht junge Eltern als potentielle Kunden für ihr neues Angebot.
This company sees young parents as potential customers for its new offer.
Wegen des Wetters ist ein Frühstück im Garten heute nicht möglich.
Because of the weather, breakfast in the garden is not possible today.