ENGLISH
REFERENCE

potential for sth

prep. phr..
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford

prep. phr.. the possibility that something will develop or happen in the future.

prep. phr.. a noun phrase indicating the latent capacity or likelihood for a specific outcome or development to occur.


SIMPLE

This new project has great potential for success.

CONTEXTUAL

The doctor explained that while the surgery is risky, there is significant potential for a full recovery.

COMPLEX

Economists are currently debating whether the emerging market possesses the necessary potential for sustainable long-term growth despite recent political instability.

Usage

usually follows the verb 'have' or 'see' and is followed by a noun or a gerund.

Teaching tip

help students distinguish between 'potential' as an uncountable noun (general ability) and this specific pattern 'potential for' which points toward a specific result.

Pitfall

The plan has potential of success.The plan has potential for success.the noun 'potential' typically collocations with the preposition 'for' when describing a future possibility.

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