might

Definition of mightnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun might contrast with its synonyms?

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.

the belief that might makes right

When is energy a more appropriate choice than might?

While in some cases nearly identical to might, energy applies to power expended or capable of being transformed into work.

a worker with boundless energy

Where would force be a reasonable alternative to might?

The synonyms force and might are sometimes interchangeable, but force implies the actual effective exercise of power.

used enough force to push the door open

When would power be a good substitute for might?

The words power and might are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, power may imply latent or exerted physical, mental, or spiritual ability to act or be acted upon.

the awesome power of flowing water

When could strength be used to replace might?

The meanings of strength and might largely overlap; however, strength applies to the quality or property of a person or thing that makes possible the exertion of force or the withstanding of strain, pressure, or attack.

use weight training to build your strength

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of might There is financial might that can be brought to bear in the service of accumulating futures — and out-accumulating 31 other NHL teams — during an era of cap growth. Thomas Drance, New York Times, 15 Apr. 2026 Periodically, the group returns to such a state of paradoxical lifelessness, dragged by a partner or semi-mechanically traversing the stage as an automaton might. Lauren Warnecke, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2026 Impressed by this demonstration of America’s manufacturing might, Duchamp took one back to his studio, inscribed it, and hung from the ceiling. Howard Halle, ARTnews.com, 10 Apr. 2026 But California’s high prices have remained a grim fact of life, especially for young people struggling to enter the housing market, despite the draw of enjoying the Golden State’s many attributes such as its natural beauty, powerful economic might and culture of innovation. Terry Castleman, Los Angeles Times, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for might
Recent Examples of Synonyms for might
Noun
  • The Stars’ 71 power-play goals ranked first in the NHL in 2025-26, and Johnston’s 27 were the second-most in a single season since the 2004-05 lockout.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 27 Apr. 2026
  • They're driven very much by power, domination, control.
    Brie Stimson, FOXNews.com, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • While the Sky are looking to rebound from a 10-34 season, the Dream went 30-14 last season and Reese’s growing offensive game, along with her strength on the boards, only adds to their championship hopes.
    Kalen Lumpkins, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026
  • And without Wagner, the Magic were missing too much of that collective strength.
    Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Just being able to be available every single day and also just bring energy and be a good clubhouse guy.
    Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 25 Apr. 2026
  • The ambiance and energy were incredible.
    Tony Jones, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Speed and maneuverability reshape strike capability Hypersonic missiles travel at speeds above Mach 5, or above 3,800 miles per hour.
    Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Pair that capability with predictive pricing software, and a store can change what you're charged in real-time based on whatever the algorithm decides at that moment.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Saudi Arabia’s East-West Petroline pipeline is operating near its 7 million-barrel-per-day capacity, with expansion plans under review.
    Emma Bussey, FOXNews.com, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Leland Dudek is former acting commissioner of Social Security, writing in his personal capacity.
    Leland Dudek, Hartford Courant, 27 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The physicality ramped up early in the second period when the B’s fourth line flexed their muscle and cracked Lyon.
    Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 24 Apr. 2026
  • The AeroPilates Reformer helps tone muscles, improve flexibility and boost cardio health with customizable intensity for full-body workouts.
    Tory Johnson, ABC News, 24 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Might.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/might. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on might

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster