Translation guide
The English word "potential" can refer to an unrealized ability, a future possibility, or a latent quality. In Japanese, these are expressed with different words and grammar patterns. This guide helps you choose the right expression based on the intended meaning.
Expressing that someone or something has the ability to develop, succeed, or be used in a certain way in the future.
The most common and versatile word for 'potential' as a possibility or likelihood. It can be used for both people and things.
彼には大きな可能性がある。
He has great potential.
この技術はまだ可能性を秘めている。
This technology still holds potential.
Specifically refers to latent or hidden ability, often used for people's untapped talents.
彼女の潜在能力は計り知れない。
Her potential is immeasurable.
Refers to future promise or prospects, often used in business or career contexts.
この会社は将来性がある。
This company has potential (for the future).
Loanword from English, often used in business or casual contexts to mean potential ability or capacity.
彼はポテンシャルが高い。
He has high potential.
Expressing that there is a chance or likelihood of something occurring.
Again, the most common word. Used with verbs or nouns to indicate possibility.
成功する可能性は低い。
The potential for success is low.
雨が降る可能性がある。
There is a potential for rain.
Used for negative potential or risk. Often in formal or written contexts.
洪水のおそれがある。
There is a potential for flooding.
Referring to the scientific concept of potential energy.
The standard physics term for potential energy.
位置エネルギーは高さに比例する。
Potential energy is proportional to height.
Referring to voltage or electric potential difference.
可能性 (kanousei) is a broad term for possibility or potential in general. 潜在能力 (senzai nouryoku) specifically refers to latent or hidden ability, often innate talent. Use 可能性 when you mean 'there is a chance' or 'it is possible', and 潜在能力 when emphasizing untapped personal capacity.
English often uses 'potential' as an adjective (e.g., 'potential customers'). In Japanese, this is usually expressed with 可能性のある (kanousei no aru) or ～になりうる (~ni nariuru), not a single adjective. For example, 'potential customers' → 顧客になる可能性のある人々 (kokyaku ni naru kanousei no aru hitobito) or 見込み客 (mikomi kyaku).
彼女は偉大なリーダーになる可能性を秘めている。
She has the potential to become a great leader.
潜在的なリスクを評価する必要がある。
We need to assess the potential risks.
Loanword version, less common but understood.
ポテンシャルエネルギーを計算する。
Calculate the potential energy.