How to say "latent" in Japanese

• 隠然いんぜん
  taru-adjective, adverb (with と)Covers the sense of hidden power or influence working behind the scenes, as in hidden clout or secret control. It is less common and seldom the word you want for 'latent' ability; it really means covert, behind-the-scenes.
• 潜在的せんざいてき
  na-adjectiveThe usual choice for 'latent' in the sense of potential not yet visible or realized, such as latent talent, ability, or danger. Use this when something exists beneath the surface and may emerge later.
  それらの子供こどもたちは潜在的せんざいてきな顧客こきゃくだ。↗

  Those children are potential customers.

For 'latent' in the ordinary sense of hidden potential or ability, use 潜在的; 隠然 instead covers influence or power exercised quietly behind the scenes and is rare.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 隠然いんぜんlatent
• 潜在的せんざいてきlatent