potent

Everyday

1. Potent means very strong and powerful in its effect: a potent medicine, poison or drink works strongly. tree →
2. Potent can describe an idea, symbol or argument that has a strong effect on people's minds. tree →

In the lessons

In science and health lessons, a potent medicine or poison works even in tiny amounts, so it must be used with great care; this is a safety signal. In history and English, "a potent symbol" moves people deeply (a flag, a poppy). In stories a potent potion is a strong magic drink.

Examples

• Some snake venom is so potent that a tiny drop can be deadly. tree →
• This medicine is potent, so only take the dose on the label. tree →
• The witch brewed a potent potion. tree →
• The poppy is a potent symbol of remembrance. tree →
• Garlic has a potent smell. tree →
• Her speech was a potent reminder to be kind. tree →
• Strong coffee is too potent for children. tree →
• But, delightfully as the wine looked, it was mingled with the most potent enchantments that Circe knew how to concoct. tree →

Note

Opposite: impotent or weak (but "impotent" also has an adult medical meaning, so "weak" or "powerless" is better for pupils). Noun: potency. Say "POH-tent". Do not confuse with "patent" (a legal right to an invention).

In Jewish tradition

In science and health lessons, a potent medicine or poison works even in tiny amounts, so it must be used with great care; this is a safety signal. In history and English, "a potent symbol" moves people deeply (a flag, a poppy). In stories a potent potion is a strong magic drink.

Examples

• Wind is of course the herald of the storm, the Biblical symbol par excellence of the divine theophany, making wind a potent symbol of divine imminence. (Sefer Yetzirah, Sefaria community translation) tree →

Note

Opposite: impotent or weak (but "impotent" also has an adult medical meaning, so "weak" or "powerless" is better for pupils). Noun: potency. Say "POH-tent". Do not confuse with "patent" (a legal right to an invention).