ENGLISH
REFERENCE

potentially

adv. sent.
B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford US //pəˈtɛnʃəɫi// UK //pətˈɛnʃəlˌi// po·ten·tial·ly Archaic General-service

adv. used to say that something is possible and might happen in the future, even if it has not happened yet.

adv. expressing possibility or likelihood; used to indicate that a situation or quality exists in a latent state and may be realised. Often used to qualify a statement about risk or benefit.


SIMPLE

This new law could potentially change how we live.

CONTEXTUAL

The scientists warned that the melting ice could potentially lead to a significant rise in sea levels.

COMPLEX

While the merger is potentially lucrative for shareholders, it remains fraught with regulatory hurdles that could delay the final acquisition for several months.

Origin

From potential + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed before the adjective or verb it modifies, or at the beginning of a clause to qualify the entire statement.

Pitfall

It is potentially that he will winIt is possible that he will winPotentially is an adverb and cannot function as a predicative adjective after 'to be'; use 'possible' or 'likely' instead.

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