potentially

[ puh-ten-shuh-lee ]

adverb

1. possibly but not yet actually:

   potentially useful information.

Word History and Origins

Origin of potentially¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; potential + -ly

Example Sentences

"I felt maybe a little bit alone knowing that there were questions going to be asked - about potentially family questions or personal questions."

From BBC

One lineage had copy number changes similar to ER-positive breast cancers, while the other appeared to have events consistent with ER-negative breast cancers, highlighting their potentially different origins.

From Science Daily

The probiotic cancer treatment, described Nov. 20 in the journal Cell Chemical Biology, establishes a customizable drug delivery system that can be modified to potentially treat other gut diseases.

From Science Daily

“The company will have significant cash flow, a strong balance sheet, and the financial flexibility to pursue growth opportunities, both organically and potentially through acquisitions,” Comcast President Mike Cavanagh said in a note to employees.

From Los Angeles Times

The test could potentially be implemented within a few years.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• likely
• possibly
• probably