When combined, 潜力 (qiánlì) literally translates to “hidden strength” or “latent power.” This provides a clear and intuitive image of what the word means: ability that is present but needs to be discovered, cultivated, or brought to the surface.
The concept of 潜力 (qiánlì) is deeply embedded in Chinese culture, particularly in the realms of education, parenting, and personal development. While the West values potential, the Chinese perspective often carries a heavier weight of expectation and collective responsibility. A classic related concept is 望子成龙 (wàng zǐ chéng lóng), which means “to hope one's son becomes a dragon.” This idiom encapsulates the immense importance placed on a child realizing their full potential, not just for personal fulfillment, but for the honor and standing of the entire family. Comparison to Western “Potential”: In American culture, telling someone “You have so much potential!” is primarily a statement of individual encouragement, linked to personal choice and self-actualization (“You can be anything you want to be!”). In China, identifying someone's 潜力 (qiánlì) is often the first step in a long, guided process of cultivation. It can imply a responsibility—on the part of the individual, their family, and their teachers—to nurture that potential towards a successful and respectable outcome. The focus is less on infinite choice and more on developing a promising, identified talent to its peak. It's a call to action, not just a feel-good compliment.
潜力 (qiánlì) is a very common and positive word used in various formal and informal contexts.
The connotation is almost always positive, conveying hope, promise, and the possibility of future success.
A common point of confusion for learners is distinguishing 潜力 (qiánlì) from 能力 (nénglì).