What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
potentially
Example
The new project has the potential to be very successful. [potential: noun]
Example
The athlete has the potential to break the world record. [potential: adjective]
possibly
Example
I might possibly be able to attend the meeting next week. [possibly: adverb]
Example
It's possibly the best movie I've ever seen. [possibly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Possibly is more commonly used than potentially in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts. Potentially is more formal and is often used in academic or technical writing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between potentially and possibly?
Potentially is more formal than possibly, which is more commonly used in informal contexts. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context and tone of the sentence.
