1.
potential; latent; underlying; hidden
Existing beneath the surface or not yet manifested. Describes something that is present but not currently visible or active, with the possibility of emerging.
潜在的なリスクがある。
There is a potential risk.
潜在的な需要を掘り起こす。
To tap into latent demand.
この地域には潜在的な観光資源が数多く眠っている。
This region has numerous untapped potential tourism resources lying dormant.
The na-adjective form of 潜在 (latency). The opposite is 顕在的 (manifest, apparent).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 潜在的なリスク (potential risk)
- 潜在的な需要 (latent demand)
- 潜在的な顧客 (potential customer)
- 潜在的な問題 (underlying problem)
- 潜在的な能力 (latent ability)
USAGE NOTE:
A formal term common in business, academic, and analytical writing. In casual speech, people would more likely say 隠れた (hidden) or まだ見えていない (not yet visible).