might
myt
Might (aux) means used to show that something is possible, though not certain. Example: “It might rain later, so bring an umbrella.”
aux
1
Used to show that something is possible, though not certain.
"It might rain later, so bring an umbrella."
"We might visit my aunt this weekend if the weather improves."
"She might be late, because the roads are very busy today."
2
The past tense of "may", used to ask permission or describe a past possibility.
"He asked if he might leave early."
"She wondered whether she might borrow a pen from the teacher."
"The guide said that the road might have been blocked by snow."
noun
1
Great power, strength, or force.
"The empire was at the height of its military might."
"She pushed the door open with all her might."
"The storm showed the full might of the ocean against the small boat."
How to use might
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAs a noun, sheer strength or power; as a verb, a softer, less certain version of "may" or "will".
Common mistake
Don't confuse the noun "might" (power) with the modal verb "might" (possibility) — context usually makes it clear.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
with all one's might
military might
might well
might have
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Word forms
- Plural
- mights
- Comparative
- mighter
- Superlative
- mightest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It _____ rain later, so bring an umbrella.
Etymology
From Old English miht/meaht ("ability, power, strength"), related to "may".
Related words
Rhymes for might
See all rhymes for might →Frequently asked questions
What does “might” mean?
The word “might” means great power, strength, or force. In plain terms, as a noun, sheer strength or power; as a verb, a softer, less certain version of "may" or "will".
How do you pronounce “might”?
“Might” is pronounced myt ([mɐɪt] in IPA).
How do you use “might” in a sentence?
Here is “might” used in a sentence: “The empire was at the height of its military might.”
What part of speech is “might”?
Depending on how it is used, “might” can be a noun and an aux.
Where does the word “might” come from?
The word “might” comes from Old English. From Old English miht/meaht ("ability, power, strength"), related to "may".
Is “might” a common word?
“Might” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “might” have?
“Might” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: great power, strength, or force.
What is the difference between might and power?
The two overlap, but 'might' stresses sheer physical strength or force, often on a grand scale — the might of an army or a storm. 'Power' is broader, covering strength as well as authority, influence, and the ability to act. All might is power, but not all power is might.
What does the phrase 'with all your might' mean?
It means using every bit of your strength and effort. If you push, pull, or try 'with all your might,' you are giving something your maximum physical force or determination. The phrase emphasises total, wholehearted exertion, leaving nothing held back in reserve.
Is this 'might' the same as the word meaning 'may'?
They are spelled alike but are different words. This entry is the noun meaning great strength or force. The other 'might' is a helping verb showing possibility, as in 'it might rain.' Context makes clear whether the strength meaning or the possibility meaning is intended.
What is an example of 'might' as a noun?
'The might of the ocean,' 'military might,' and 'he heaved the door with all his might' all use the noun. It suits descriptions of overwhelming force — nations, armies, natural forces, or a person straining every muscle — and carries a sense of impressive, formidable strength.
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