MIGHT definition: 1. past simple of the verb may, used especially when reporting what someone has said, thought…. Learn more.

The meaning of MIGHT is —used to express permission, liberty, probability, or possibility in the past. How to use might in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Might.

Words like might and could are known as modals, since they express certain "moods" (for example, I might go indicates an uncertain mood on the part of the speaker).

(used with another phrase or clause to express the condition, purpose, or result of something): Let's agree on this so that (as a result) we might go home early.

Oct 31, 2025 · For many speakers, the use as the past tense of the auxiliary may, indicating permission, is obsolete: I told him he might not see her will only be interpreted as "I told him he …

Words like might and could are known as modals, since they express certain "moods" (for example, I might go indicates an uncertain mood on the part of the speaker).

The word "might" comes from the Old English word "might," which means "to have power or be able to." It has been used in English for many centuries to express possibility and ability.

The difference is that might usually refers to situations that are less probable or less definite. It is used when people think that something is possible but not very likely.

She pushed the door with all her might (= with as much force as possible). (Definition of might from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

Some common synonyms of might are energy, force, power, and strength. While all these words mean "the ability to exert effort," might implies great or overwhelming power or strength.