latent与potential这两个形容词均含“潜在的”之意。
latent : 指存在但看不见的现象或潜在的性质。
- Recent developments in the area have brought latent ethnic tension out into the open.
近来该地区的一些新情况导致民族之间潜在的紧张关系公开化了。 - We're trying to bring out the latent artistic talents that many people possess without realizing it.
我们正在努力挖掘许多人自身具有但却没有意识到的潜在艺术才能。
potential : 强调潜在的可能性或能力。
- A number of potential buyers have expressed interest in the company.
一些潜在的买主表达了对该公司的兴趣。 - Many potential customers are waiting for a fall in prices before buying.
很多潜在的顾客都在等着降价再购买。 - The accident is a grim reminder of the potential dangers involved in North Sea oil production.
该事故残酷地提醒人们北海石油生产可能会出现的危险。
