potential

Often used to describe abilities, opportunities, or resources that could be developed or utilized.

Used to describe someone or something that might become important or influential.

Noun vs. Adjective

As a noun, 'potential' refers to the capacity for future development (e.g., 'She has great potential'). As an adjective, it describes something that has this capacity (e.g., 'a potential solution').

Avoid Overuse

While 'potential' is useful, overusing it can make your writing vague. Specify what kind of potential you mean (e.g., 'leadership potential' instead of just 'potential').