a list of potential

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a list of potential" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a compilation of possible options, candidates, or ideas in various contexts, such as business, research, or planning. Example: "We have compiled a list of potential candidates for the job opening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Build a list of potential candidates.

The New York Times

A list of potential suitors.

The New Yorker

Here is a list of potential candidates to get started.

The New Yorker

Perednik passed Nisman a list of potential titles.

The New Yorker

I put a list of potential staff people together.

The New York Times - Sports

The sisters put together a list of potential spouses.

The Guardian - Books

The book also includes a list of potential pitfalls.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Create a list of potential contacts at each company.

Cornell University

It has been snapping up competitors and has a list of potential future deals.

The Guardian - Business

The Mansfield john's number had come from a list of potential clients he'd been keeping.

The New Yorker

Christie's name is on a list of potential witnesses at the trial.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you have "a list of potential" items, organize them logically. Use categories, priority rankings, or other methods to make it easy to navigate and understand.

Common error

Avoid creating "a list of potential" items without thoroughly vetting each entry. Ensure each item meets the required criteria and is genuinely viable, preventing wasted effort on unsuitable options.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a list of potential" functions as a noun phrase that often serves as a subject complement or direct object. It introduces a compilation of possible options, candidates, or ideas. As Ludwig explains, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

31%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a list of potential" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for introducing a compilation of possibilities, candidates, or options. Ludwig highlights its correctness and broad usability. It appears most commonly in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts. When using the phrase, ensure clarity and relevance in selecting the items and consider organizing the list logically. Alternatives include "a collection of promising options" and "a catalog of possibilities". Avoid creating lists without proper vetting to ensure the suitability of each item.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a collection of promising options

Replaces "list" with "collection" and "potential" with "promising options", highlighting positive aspects.

a compilation of prospects

Uses "compilation" instead of "list" and "prospects" to convey future opportunities.

a rundown of viable alternatives

Replaces "list" with "rundown" and "potential" with "viable alternatives", suggesting practicality.

a catalog of possibilities

Replaces "list" with "catalog" and "potential" with "possibilities", suggesting a comprehensive collection.

a summary of possible solutions

Substitutes "list" with "summary" and "potential" with "possible solutions", focusing on problem-solving.

an inventory of likely candidates

Substitutes "list" with "inventory" and "potential" with "likely candidates", implying a higher probability.

a directory of qualified applicants

Substitutes "list" with "directory" and "potential" with "qualified applicants", emphasizing suitability.

a registry of future contenders

Uses "registry" instead of "list" and "future contenders" to emphasize competition.

a portfolio of achievable goals

Replaces "list" with "portfolio" and "potential" with "achievable goals", highlighting attainability.

a schedule of upcoming events

Uses "schedule" instead of "list" and "upcoming events" to suggest activities that will happen.

FAQs

How can I use "a list of potential" in a sentence?

"A list of potential" is typically used to introduce a compilation of possibilities, candidates, or options. For example, "The committee prepared "a list of potential" donors for the fundraising campaign."

What are some alternatives to saying "a list of potential"?

You can use alternatives such as "a collection of promising options", "a catalog of possibilities", or "an inventory of likely candidates", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a list of potential candidates" or "a list of possible candidates"?

Both "a list of potential candidates" and "a list of possible candidates" are correct. "Potential" suggests that the candidates have the capacity to be suitable, while "possible" simply means they could be considered. The choice depends on the nuance you wish to convey.

When should I use "a list of potential" versus "a list of probable"?

"A list of potential" is broader, including all possibilities. "A list of probable" narrows the scope to those deemed likely or highly possible. Use "potential" for initial brainstorming and "probable" when focusing on the most realistic options.