potential to uphold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "potential to uphold" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the capability or ability of something to maintain or support a certain standard, principle, or value. Example: "The new policy has the potential to uphold the integrity of our organization and ensure ethical practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The old court was likely to uphold them.

The Economist

For instance, in the presence of bankruptcy risk, the tax benefit associated with high debt to equity ratios is counterbalanced by the firm's potential inability to uphold long-term work contracts.

Business Research

The mayor, and his potential opponents, should seize this moment to uphold the principles behind a system that works.

The New York Times

In a second stage, we prioritize within those landscapes the individual patches of agricultural lands that, being available for a potential reforestation program, would contribute most to uphold connectivity and ecological flows at wide spatial scales.

Forest Ecology and Management

The general was alerted to Dylan's past activities by the habitual police check of potential laureates, which is usually a formality to uphold the candidate's "worthiness and morality".

Independent

By a 7-2 vone on Wednesday night, the party's executive committee voted to uphold rules that provide all candidates with equal access to potential primary voters.

The New York Times

That is a dangerous illusion to uphold.

The New York Times

Politicians have failed to uphold civilian supremacy.

The New York Times

If the court rules to uphold Prop.

The New York Times

"We are sworn to uphold the Constitution.

The New York Times

"We need to uphold our own values".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "potential to uphold", ensure the context clearly identifies what standard, principle, or value is being maintained. This adds clarity and strengthens the statement's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "potential to uphold" in contexts where the subject lacks the necessary resources or authority. Overstating the potential can undermine credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "potential to uphold" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, indicating a capacity or possibility. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is usable in written English. It suggests a forward-looking assessment of the capacity of something.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "potential to uphold" is grammatically correct and functions as an adjectival phrase expressing the future capability of maintaining standards or principles. Ludwig AI confirms its validity for use in written English. While relatively rare, its appearance in sources like The New York Times and Science Magazine indicates a formal and professional tone. Consider alternatives such as "capacity to maintain" or "ability to preserve" depending on the desired emphasis. When using the phrase, ensure clarity regarding what is being maintained, and avoid overstating the potential if the subject lacks necessary resources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to maintain

Focuses on the inherent ability or power to keep something in a particular state.

ability to preserve

Highlights the capability of preventing something from being damaged or altered.

capability to sustain

Emphasizes the power to keep something going or existing over a period of time.

prospect of defending

Focuses on the potential for protecting something from attack or criticism.

chance to safeguard

Highlights the opportunity to protect something from harm or danger.

likelihood of supporting

Emphasizes the probability of providing assistance or approval to something.

possibility of championing

Highlights the chance of actively promoting or defending something.

aptitude for honoring

Focuses on the natural talent or skill for respecting and fulfilling a commitment.

promise of respecting

Emphasizes the assurance or commitment to showing regard for something.

opportunity to validate

Highlights the chance to confirm or prove the truth or value of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "potential to uphold" to describe a capability or possibility of maintaining standards or principles, for example: "The new policy has the "potential to uphold" the integrity of the organization."

What are some alternatives to "potential to uphold"?

Alternatives include "capacity to maintain", "ability to preserve", or "capability to sustain", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "potential to uphold" or "ability to uphold"?

"Potential to uphold" emphasizes a possibility or unrealized capacity, while "ability to uphold" suggests a present capability. The choice depends on whether you're highlighting a future prospect or current strength.

In what contexts is "potential to uphold" most appropriate?

"Potential to uphold" is suitable in formal contexts when discussing the capabilities of systems, policies, or individuals in maintaining certain standards, values, or legal obligations.