Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
shows potential for
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "shows potential for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something has the capability or possibility to develop or succeed in a particular area. Example: "The new technology shows potential for revolutionizing the way we communicate."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
The firm's research shows potential for a stellar growth rate of 25percentt in the United States in 2001, and a "major upgrade cycle in both the European professional and home markets," the report said.
News & Media
The electrogoniometer shows potential for use in clinical practice.
Science
This gauge shows potential for UHV/XHV pressure measurements.
Science
The proposed PBS shows potential for application to devices such as routers and switches.
It also shows potential for the treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia.
Science
Clearly, this concept shows potential for practical application – of course further improvement and optimization is required.
Science
The proposed technology shows potential for on-line monitoring of coagulation and syneresis.
Science
SN38-SLH shows potential for enabling injection-to-oral transformation in cancer chemotherapy.
The optimal preparation of multipolymeric propranolol matrices identified in this study shows potential for buccal administration.
The study shows potential for efficiency improvement by optimization of the shape and number of blades.
mLub therefore shows potential for treatment in early osteoarthritis following injury.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "shows potential for", ensure you clearly specify the area or domain where the potential lies to provide context and avoid ambiguity.
Common error
Avoid exaggerating the potential without providing supporting evidence or realistic limitations. Ground your claims with data or observations to maintain credibility.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "shows potential for" functions as a verb phrase indicating a capability or possibility. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is frequently used to express that something exhibits a promising attribute or capability for future development or success. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its application across various fields.
Frequent in
Science
76%
News & Media
12%
Formal & Business
3%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "shows potential for" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for indicating that something possesses promising capabilities or possibilities. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. The phrase is most frequently found in scientific contexts, followed by news and media, and exhibits a neutral to formal register. Alternatives such as "demonstrates promise for" and "exhibits capability for" offer nuanced ways to convey similar meanings. When using this phrase, it's best practice to specify the area of potential and avoid overstating claims without evidence. With its clear function and versatility, "shows potential for" remains a valuable asset in both professional and academic writing.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
demonstrates promise for
Focuses on the demonstrated aspects of potential, suggesting evidence of future success.
exhibits capability for
Highlights the inherent ability or capacity to achieve something.
displays aptitude for
Emphasizes a natural talent or inclination towards a specific area.
holds promise for
Suggests a hopeful outlook and positive expectations for future developments.
suggests possibilities for
Indicates a range of potential outcomes or opportunities that could arise.
offers prospects for
Focuses on the likelihood of future success or advancement.
indicates capacity for
Highlights the ability to handle or manage something effectively.
reveals the ability to
Emphasizes the discovery or uncovering of a pre-existing skill or potential.
presents opportunities for
Focuses on the chances and possibilities that are created or made available.
portends future success in
A more formal way to suggest that something indicates a likely positive outcome.
FAQs
How can I use "shows potential for" in a sentence?
You can use "shows potential for" to indicate that something has the capability or possibility to develop or succeed in a particular area. For example, "The new drug "shows potential for" treating cancer effectively".
What are some alternatives to "shows potential for"?
Some alternatives include "demonstrates promise for", "exhibits capability for", or "holds promise for" depending on the context.
Is it better to say "has potential" or "shows potential for"?
"Has potential" is a more general statement, while ""shows potential for"" implies that there is already some evidence or indication of that potential in a specific area. The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.
What is the difference between "potential for" and "potential in"?
"Potential for" suggests a general capability or possibility, while "potential in" focuses on the specific area where that potential exists. For example, "shows potential for growth" versus "shows potential in marketing".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested