potential to succeed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "potential to succeed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's ability or likelihood to achieve success in a particular area or endeavor. Example: "With her dedication and hard work, she has the potential to succeed in her career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

If I had to pick just one with long-term potential to succeed, it's definitely Facebook.

The Guardian

The two models also have the potential to succeed in different ways.

The New Yorker

"People here have enormous credentials and potential to succeed," Mr. Joachim said.

The New York Times

"However, too many people are still missing out on higher education, despite having the potential to succeed," he warned.

The Guardian

It means that most babies have the potential to succeed in conventional terms in exams and careers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Since the WorldCom deal unraveled nearly three years ago, Mr. Esrey has repeatedly tried to convince investors of Sprint's potential to succeed as a unified stand-alone company.

The New York Times

This raised two issues when we were designing UNIQ: how to define 'less-advantaged' and how to identify ability and potential to succeed at Oxford.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Named this year after its main sponsor Valeria Sykes, it aims to discover 'potential to succeed' as well as current excellence.

The Guardian

Bennett also reaffirmed Burgess's comments about England's potential to succeed, despite them now facing a difficult challenge to make the final.

The Guardian - Sport

These progressive methods have the potential to succeed in industrial microscopy or defectoscopy.

Perspectives in Science

The opening introduces Philip, a man with great potential to succeed and even greater potential to lose it.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating someone's "potential to succeed", specify the area or field in which they are expected to excel to provide context and clarity. For example, instead of saying "They have potential to succeed", specify "They have the potential to succeed in marketing".

Common error

Avoid exaggerating someone's "potential to succeed" without providing concrete examples or demonstrable skills. Ground your assessment in observable traits and accomplishments rather than speculation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "potential to succeed" functions as a noun phrase followed by an infinitive, describing the capacity or likelihood of achieving a desired outcome. Ludwig indicates that it's a valid and frequently used construction. Examples show its use in evaluating individuals, projects, and strategies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "potential to succeed" is a versatile and frequently used expression for evaluating the likelihood of a positive outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. While its core meaning remains consistent, its usage spans diverse contexts from news and media to scientific discourse. To maximize clarity and impact, remember to specify the area of potential and ground your assessments in concrete evidence. By avoiding overstatement and focusing on demonstrable skills, you can effectively communicate the promise and possibility inherent in someone or something's "potential to succeed".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

likelihood of success

Focuses on the probability of achieving success.

probability of succeeding

Emphasizes the statistical chance of a successful outcome.

capacity to thrive

Highlights the ability to flourish or do well.

aptitude for achievement

Stresses natural talent or skill leading to accomplishments.

ability to flourish

Focuses on the innate capability to grow and prosper.

prospects for prosperity

Indicates future opportunities for wealth and success.

promise of advancement

Highlights the expectation of future progress and success.

talent for victory

Emphasizes skill and ability in achieving a win or success.

scope for excelling

Points to the potential for surpassing expectations.

room for growth

Highlights the opportunity to develop and improve, leading to success.

FAQs

How can I use "potential to succeed" in a sentence?

You can use "potential to succeed" to describe someone's likelihood of achieving a positive outcome in a particular area. For example: "She demonstrates the "potential to succeed" in the tech industry with her coding skills and innovative ideas."

What are some alternatives to "potential to succeed"?

Alternatives include "likelihood of success", "prospects for prosperity", or "capacity to thrive", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "potential to succeed" or "ability to succeed"?

"Potential to succeed" emphasizes future possibilities based on current qualities, while "ability to succeed" highlights existing skills and capabilities. The choice depends on whether you are focusing on future prospects or current competence.

What factors contribute to someone's "potential to succeed"?

Factors may include skills, knowledge, experience, determination, access to resources, and supportive networks. Assessing these elements provides a comprehensive view of someone's "potential to succeed".