unrealized potential

USAGE SUMMARY

"unrealized potential" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe potential that has not yet been used or developed. For example, "The company had great unrealized potential that was never fully realized."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. Maynard says he will have regrets about Mr. Clinton, of unrealized potential, of a potentially great but flawed man.

The New York Times

On no particular evidence the Wheelers consider themselves full of unrealized potential.

The New York Times

And to judge from the cooking, it has more than a little unrealized potential.

The New York Times

The left wing is Oleg Kvasha, 25, the towering Russian with unrealized potential.

The New York Times - Sports

The power of collaboration between government and nongovernment individuals and organizations has enormous, yet unrealized potential.

The New York Times

And they'd tinker under the hood, hunting for unrealized potential from the V-8.

The New York Times

The flag to me was a symbol of that unrealized potential.

The New York Times

Unrealized Potential As the Big East evolved, so did its combatants from the 1986 final.

The New York Times - Sports

Controlled gene silencing technologies have significant, unrealized potential for use in tissue regeneration applications.

Biomaterials

Last week, the Jets spent the postgame defending their victory over the Chiefs, talking again about their unrealized potential.

The New York Times - Sports

But everywhere, as palpable as the rain dripping off the ubiquitous wisteria buds, was a sense of unrealized potential.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing individuals or organizations, use "unrealized potential" to identify opportunities for growth, development, or improvement. For instance, "The company's new marketing strategy aims to tap into its unrealized potential in the international market."

Common error

Avoid using "unrealized potential" to describe goals or outcomes that are inherently unattainable. "Unrealized potential" suggests that success is possible with the right effort and resources, not that the goal is inherently flawed or based on speculation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unrealized potential" functions as a noun phrase, where "unrealized" modifies the noun "potential". According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is both correct and usable. It's generally used to describe abilities or opportunities that have not yet been fully developed or exploited.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

22%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unrealized potential" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe untapped abilities or opportunities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a phrase that resonates across various fields, from personal development to business strategy. Predominantly featured in News & Media, as well as academic and scientific domains, "unrealized potential" highlights the possibility of growth and improvement. To effectively use this phrase, remember that it suggests a path to achievement that requires effort and resources, and should not be confused with unattainable goals. Exploring synonyms like "untapped potential" or "latent capacity" can further refine your writing, ensuring you capture the precise nuance you intend.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

untapped potential

Focuses on the idea that the potential is available but not yet used.

latent capacity

Highlights the hidden or dormant aspect of the potential.

dormant ability

Emphasizes that the ability exists but is currently inactive.

hidden talent

Suggests a skill or aptitude that is not readily apparent.

unfulfilled promise

Indicates a potential that has not yet been brought to fruition.

untapped resource

Implies a valuable asset that is not being utilized.

underdeveloped skill

Focuses on the aspect of skill that requires further development.

missed opportunity

Highlights the failure to capitalize on a potential advantage.

unsuspected capability

Emphasizes that the capability is not known or anticipated.

unexploited possibility

Highlights the fact that a chance has not been taken to profit from the possibility.

FAQs

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

"Unrealized potential" can be used to describe untapped abilities or opportunities. For example, "The project has significant "untapped potential" for innovation if properly funded."

What are some synonyms for "unrealized potential"?

Alternatives include "untapped potential", "latent capacity", or "hidden talent", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "unrealized potential" or "unrealised potential"?

"Unrealized potential" is the standard spelling in American English, while "unrealised potential" is common in British English. Both are grammatically correct, but choose the spelling that aligns with your target audience.

What does it mean to have "unrealized potential"?

Having "unrealized potential" means possessing skills, talents, or opportunities that have not yet been fully developed or utilized. Recognizing and nurturing this potential can lead to significant achievements or improvements.