real potential for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "real potential for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the likelihood or capacity for something to happen or develop positively in the future. Example: "The new technology shows real potential for improving efficiency in manufacturing processes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

With painting, there was no real potential for income.

The New Yorker

It's definitely possible; there's a real potential for us to do it.

The Guardian - Sport

The total ban is based on remote possibilities that will eliminate real potential for tremendous good.

The New York Times

There was also relief that a looming crisis, with real potential for violence, had been averted.

The Guardian

"There is a real potential for this to cause problems," Mr. Pollack said of the bombings.

The New York Times

You have a real potential for these guys making a fundamental misjudgment of this election.

The New York Times

Several large clinical studies indicate it holds real potential for preventing and treating prostate cancer.

Independent

"There's a real potential for some kind of litigation, and a workout going forward," he said.

The New York Times

By providing us with new and better ways of doing things, the IoT offers real potential for improving our lives.

The Guardian - Tech

The result is both the real potential for autocracy and a gaping power vacuum in the Democratic party.

The Guardian - Opinion

The real potential for HS2 is surely to improve direct accessibility between the north of the UK and continental Europe.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "real potential for" when you want to emphasize the tangible and practical likelihood of something positive happening or developing. This suggests that the possibility is not just theoretical, but grounded in observable factors or existing capabilities.

Common error

Avoid using "real potential for" when the evidence is weak or purely speculative. Ensure there are concrete indicators or supporting factors to justify the claim; otherwise, the statement may lack credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "real potential for" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun. It highlights the degree to which something is likely to develop or succeed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. The examples show it attributing possibility to various subjects, like technology or personal skills.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "real potential for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey tangible prospects for positive development. As Ludwig AI states, it's usable in written English for discussing the likelihood of future success. Its widespread usage in news, media and scientific contexts highlights its versatility and acceptance. While versatile, ensure that any claims of "real potential for" are well-supported by concrete evidence to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives like "genuine possibility for" or "substantial promise of" for slight variations in meaning. When used accurately, "real potential for" can effectively communicate optimism and opportunity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

genuine possibility for

Emphasizes the authenticity and likelihood of something happening.

substantial promise of

Highlights the significant likelihood of a positive outcome.

considerable capacity for

Focuses on the inherent ability and scope for development.

significant aptitude for

Implies a natural talent or skill that can be further developed.

actual prospect of

Underscores the tangible and realistic nature of future opportunities.

authentic chance for

Emphasizes a legitimate opportunity with realistic expectations.

tangible likelihood of

Focuses on the concrete and probable aspects of a future event.

demonstrable aptitude for

Highlights a proven skill or ability that indicates future success.

legitimate hope for

Suggests a valid basis for optimism and positive anticipation.

bonafide expectation of

Implies a sincere and well-founded anticipation of future events.

FAQs

How can I use "real potential for" in a sentence?

You can use "real potential for" to describe a tangible prospect or capacity for something to develop positively. For example: "This technology has "real potential for" revolutionizing the industry."

What are some alternatives to "real potential for"?

Alternatives include "genuine possibility for", "substantial promise of", or "considerable capacity for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "real potential for"?

It is appropriate when there's a demonstrable basis or clear evidence suggesting a likelihood of positive development. This phrase is best used when you want to emphasize the practical and grounded nature of the opportunity.

Is "real potential for" too formal or informal for certain contexts?

The phrase "real potential for" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or scientific writing, consider alternatives such as "significant aptitude for" or "substantial promise of" for a more nuanced expression.