a potential client

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a potential client" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who may become a client in the future but is not currently one. Example: "We are reaching out to a potential client to discuss our services and how we can meet their needs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

We got a call from a potential client a week ago Monday, which isn't unusual.

The New York Times

An undercover agent posed as a potential client and arranged appointments by phone and online.

The New York Times

I experienced this attitude at close range while interviewing a potential client in a prison lockup.

The New York Times - Books

I approached a potential client, a classically attractive High Net Worth Individual.

The New Yorker

Someone could walk in and fall in love with the building or tell a potential client".

The New York Times

(In the pilot the team is sent to steal an exotic car from a potential client).

The New York Times - Arts

One paid 13 visits to a potential client before closing the deal.

The Economist

"I had a potential client say, 'Well, I can get that for $14.'" Her standard response?

The New York Times

Mr. Bogle identifies this possible conflict as "everyone is a potential client".

The New York Times

Maybe the stalker emailed me, pretending to be a fan or a potential client wanting my editing services.

The Guardian

A potential client was coming into the office, and his old boss wanted it to look busy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When initially contacting "a potential client", personalize your communication by referencing something specific to their needs or industry.

Common error

Avoid using "potential client" when referring to current clients. Use terms like "client", "customer", or "account" for individuals or businesses already using your services.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a potential client" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It identifies a person or entity that has the possibility of becoming a client. Examples found by Ludwig indicate its common use in business and professional contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Formal & Business

22%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a potential client" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase that refers to someone or an organization that could become a client in the future. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, as well as in formal business settings. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its consistent use across various reputable sources. When communicating, make sure to use the phrase when appropriate and be aware of its professional register. Consider alternative phrases like "a prospective client" or "a possible client" depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prospective client

Emphasizes the possibility of becoming a client in the near future.

a potential customer

More general term; suitable if the context isn't strictly service-based.

a possible client

Indicates a chance of becoming a client, less certain than 'prospective'.

a likely client

Suggests a higher probability of becoming a client.

a future client

Focuses on the expectation of a client relationship developing over time.

a tentative client

Client who has not fully committed or signed on yet.

a target client

Highlights that this client is being actively pursued.

a soon-to-be client

Suggests imminent acquisition of the client.

a lead

Informal term for a prospective client, often used in sales.

a sales prospect

From a sales perspective, someone being considered as a possible client.

FAQs

How to use "a potential client" in a sentence?

You can use "a potential client" when referring to someone or an organization that is not currently a client but could become one in the future. For example, "We are preparing a presentation for "a potential client" in the healthcare industry".

What can I say instead of "a potential client"?

You can use alternatives like "a prospective client", "a possible client", or "a future client" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a potential client" or "a prospective client"?

Both "a potential client" and "a prospective client" are correct and often interchangeable. "Prospective" suggests a higher likelihood or more immediate possibility of becoming a client compared to "potential".

What's the difference between "a potential client" and "a lead"?

While both terms refer to possible future clients, "a lead" is often used in a sales context to describe a contact that might be interested in your product or service. "A potential client" is a broader term that doesn't necessarily imply active sales engagement.