might1
/mʌɪt
/modal verb (third singular present might)
1 past of may1, used especially.
1.1In reported speech, to express possibility or permission: he said he might be late...
- A Morrison spokesman would not deny a report that the brothers might buy back the company.
- A farmer can report what he thinks might be foot and mouth, a vet has to be called, and a blood test done.
1.2Expressing a possibility based on an unfulfilled condition: we might have won if we’d played better...
- A permanent lunar base might then provide a springboard for a trip to Mars.
- We are left to wonder what more it might achieve if conditions were better.
- They had no choice but to turn around and go back to conditions that might have ended their lives.
1.3Expressing annoyance about something that someone has not done: you might have told me!
1.4Expressing purpose: he avoided social engagements so that he might work...
- However, Jesus knew that the law was given so that mankind might understand the purposes of God.
2Used to tentatively ask permission or express a polite request: might I just ask one question? you might just call me Jane, if you don’t mind
2.1Asking for information, especially condescendingly: and who might you be?
3Used to express possibility or make a suggestion: this might be true you might try pain relievers...
- But when a friend suggested the story might not be true she contacted the Advertiser for help.
- Powerful minds can project incredibly rich suggestions of what it might feel like, but you don't know.
- I was wondering if you have any suggestions as to what might be best for me considering his size.
Usage
On the distinction between might and may, see may1 (usage)For a discussion of the use of might of instead of might have, see have (usage).
Phrases
might as well
might have known (or guessed)
Rhymes
might2
/mʌɪt/noun [mass noun]
Great and impressive power or strength, especially of a nation, large organization, or natural force: a convincing display of military might...
- The might of the Indian Army was on display as battle tanks and mounted missiles rolled out.
- We must encourage our leaders to use their heads rather than their might.
- They should use their might to challenge and change the laws of this land.
Synonyms
strength, force, power;
vigour, energy, brawn, sinew, muscularity;
stamina, stoutness, mightiness, powerfulness, forcefulness, potency, toughness, robustness, sturdiness
Phrases
might is right
with all one's might
with might and main
Origin
Old English miht, mieht, of Germanic origin; related to may1.