might

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

Examples 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 High-altitude rivalry The blurry boundaries through the Himalayan peaks and plateaus separating China and its southern neighbors are often relics of imperial era agreements and nomadic routes – now charged with the nationalist rhetoric and military might of New Delhi and Beijing. Simone McCarthy, CNN, 5 Nov. 2024 As a result, his work awakened readers to the role played by class conflict, racial injustice, gender inequality and imperial might in a country whose history has traditionally been framed as a victory march. Matt Brennan, Los Angeles Times, 1 Nov. 2024 No one is making money yet, not even Waymo, with all the might and resources of Alphabet at its back. Andrew J. Hawkins, The Verge, 22 Oct. 2024 Check your drinking water: The EPA does not require routine monitoring of drinking water, but your state might. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for might 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for might
Noun
  • Another area where both the administration and Congress have power to ease regulation is on the issue of permitting reform.
    Li Zhou, WIRED, 23 Nov. 2024
  • By law, Israel, as the occupying power, has the responsibility to provide education.
    Karl Vick, TIME, 22 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Previous research has suggested that youth who are categorized as obese tend to have lower muscle strength than those considered normal weight.
    Discover Magazine, Discover Magazine, 15 Nov. 2024
  • Each region has its strengths and specialties, which supports a diverse economy.
    Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 15 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Today, the technologies that will continue to enable the industry’s progress keep developing, increasing the pace and volume of data and energy consumption, and demanding significant hardware and software investment.
    Carmen Ene, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
  • And also just on a personal level, Kaley is such a wonderful person and brings such an infectious energy on set and really took me in.
    Glenn Garner, Deadline, 22 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Called Flagship Suites, the new product will feature upgrades like privacy doors, wireless charging, Bluetooth capability, multiple storage areas, and a seat with a chaise lounge mode (as well as a standard lie-flat bed option, too).
    Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Nov. 2024
  • In 2025, CMOs and agency executives will reconcile full-funnel, full-service capabilities with deep expertise in various disciplines and channels.
    Forrester, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Many of us in business recognize the capacity of AI to enhance our work, boost our productivity and drive us to new heights of innovation.
    Vidya Plainfield, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024
  • Palace Theatre, for reference, has a capacity of just over 1,600.
    Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 20 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • To build muscle and gain strength: Don’t worry, ladies.
    Fred Sassani, Austin American-Statesman, 22 Nov. 2024
  • Those who have tight muscles would benefit more from relaxation techniques.
    Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 19 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near might

Cite this Entry

“Might.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/might. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on might

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