潜能 qiánnéng potential
potential; hidden capability
How to remember 潜能: 潜 to hide + 能 able to = potential.
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How it is used
- Latent capability waiting to be developed - 挖掘学生的潜能 (wājué xuéshēng de qiánnéng) to unlock students' potential.
- A noun; pairs with verbs 挖掘/发挥/开发 (to tap/bring out/develop).
- Compare 潜力 (qiánlì), near-synonym and even more common; both mean untapped potential, with 潜力 often used of people, markets, or teams.