might

Definitions

1. verb

   Used for what may be possible, or as the past of may.

   Examples

   • He asked if he might go to the party.
   • I thought I might go the next day.
2. verb

   Used to say something could possibly happen.

   Examples

   • I might go to a party, but I have not decided.
   • He might come along too.
   ≈may
3. verb

   Used to say someone should have done something.

   Examples

   • You might have warned me about the storm.
   • She might have called first.
4. verb

   Used to admit something before making a stronger point.

   Examples

   • I might be in a wheelchair, but I want to be treated well.
   • I might play football, but I know how to read.
   ≈may
5. verb

   Used to ask politely for permission.

   Examples

   • Might I take the last biscuit?
   • Might I ask you a personal question?
6. adjective

   Possible, in a rare use.

   Examples

   • A might solution is to change the traffic route.
   • There is a might chance it will still work.
7. noun

   Power or strength held by a person or group.

   Examples

   • Peace comes from balancing the military might of rivals.
   • The country showed its might to the world.
   ≈authority≈potency≈authority≈disposition≈craft +7 more
8. noun

   Physical strength.

   Examples

   • He pushed with all his might, but it would not move.
   • She used all her might to lift the beam.
   ≈brawn≈fortitude≈pith
9. noun

   The ability to do something.

   Examples

   • He no longer had the might to lift such a load.
   • The old engine had enough might to pull the cart.
10. adjective

    Strong, in a rare use.

    Examples

    • The might army marched to the border.
    • A might wind tore through the valley.