shows potential

USAGE SUMMARY

"shows potential" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something that has the possibility or ability to improve or succeed in the future. Example: The young athlete shows potential to become a world champion in her sport.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Shows potential.

The Guardian

5. Mitt Romney shows potential.

The New York Times

His choreography shows potential, too.

The New Yorker

Using the Studio Company, he and Mr. Meehan can take a close look at choreographers whose work shows potential.

The New York Times - Arts

What we said: "It's a debut that shows potential, but falls just short of the songwriting spark hinted at on her second EP, 2012's Sea Creatures.

The Guardian - Music

The version that finally emerged on Oct. 6 after review by political appointees was titled "Study Shows Potential for Antarctic Climate Change".

The New York Times

Sprint LytroA LoTeardowney Showsng Lots Of iPotential

TechCrunch

The second list shows potential gains and losses.

Forbes

The SMS shows potential oxidative capacity towards recalcitrant compounds.

New Biotechnology

The electrogoniometer shows potential for use in clinical practice.

Manual Therapy

The fifth row of Table 2 shows potential revenue exposure.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "shows potential", be specific about the area in which the potential is evident. For example, instead of saying "The project shows potential", specify "The project shows potential for increased efficiency".

Common error

Avoid using "shows potential" as a standalone, unsubstantiated claim. Always provide supporting evidence or context to justify the assertion of potential. Without such support, the statement may lack credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shows potential" functions as a predicative expression, indicating that a subject possesses the qualities necessary for future success or improvement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

39%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "shows potential" is a versatile and widely used expression to convey optimism about future prospects. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and appropriateness across diverse contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related domains. As evidenced by the numerous examples, this phrase effectively communicates that a subject possesses the necessary qualities for future success or development. When using the phrase, ensure specificity by clearly indicating the area in which potential is evident. By providing concrete examples and descriptions, the phrase gains credibility. With a variety of alternative phrases and contexts, "shows potential" remains a reliable way to positively evaluate future prospects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has promise

A more concise way of expressing that something possesses potential.

holds promise

Similar to "has promise" but with a slightly more formal tone.

demonstrates promise

Emphasizes the outward display of potential through actions or qualities.

exhibits capability

Focuses on the present ability or capacity to achieve something in the future.

displays capacity

Focuses on the inherent ability to perform or develop.

suggests possibility

Highlights the likelihood or feasibility of future success or development.

indicates prospect

Stresses the favorable outlook or chance of positive outcomes.

intimates prospect

Implies a future possibility, often in a subtle or indirect way.

reveals aptitude

Highlights a natural talent or ability that suggests future success.

points to future

Emphasizes the forward-looking aspect and the possibility of growth.

FAQs

How can I use "shows potential" in a sentence?

You can use "shows potential" to describe something or someone that has a promising future. For example: "This new technology shows potential for revolutionizing the industry."

What's a good alternative to "shows potential"?

Alternatives include "demonstrates promise", "exhibits capability", or "has promise", depending on the specific context.

Which is more accurate: "shows potential" or "has reached its full potential"?

"Shows potential" indicates that something is still developing, while "has reached its full potential" means it has achieved its maximum capabilities. They are opposite in meaning.

Is it better to say "shows potential" or "is promising"?

Both phrases are suitable, but "shows potential" often implies a more observable or demonstrable quality, whereas "is promising" can be a more general assessment. They are largely interchangeable, though.