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 Yet the United States and Israel, with all their military might, simply failed. Marc Lynch, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026 This recent wave of violence highlights the limits of military might, observers say, and the need for political solutions. Hasan Ali, Christian Science Monitor, 10 Aug. 2026 Iran routinely puts up billboards across the city, purporting to demonstrate its might amid the war with Israel and the US. Todd Symons, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026 While the Iranian armed forces were no match for America’s military might, Tehran’s attacks on Persian Gulf neighbors with drones and missiles disrupted business and everyday life across the region. Jennifer A. Dlouhy, Fortune, 31 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for might
Recent Examples of Synonyms for might
Noun
  • As Itauma continued attempting to throw power punches, Hrgović knew his opponent had nothing left and went for the kill.
    Sarah Shephard, New York Times, 30 Aug. 2026
  • The last act before festival founder Olivia Rodrigo, Roan turned it out with all of her powers—bolstered by a bold and bitchy, razor-sharp bob.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 30 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The show is leaning into its strengths, dialing up the madcap comedy and overlapping dialogue while keeping the story lines rooted in recognizable rites of passage for young people.
    Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Divya brings an incredible depth and emotional strength to the ensemble, and the combination of these three actors makes the world of the film particularly special.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 27 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The voyage produced a 24 percent reduction in fuel consumption, according to measurements released by the maritime energy company.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 3 Sep. 2026
  • India's quarterly economic growth has exceeded expectations several times over the past year, defying a bleak global trade environment, high energy prices and geopolitical uncertainties.
    Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 3 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Though the Roman telescope is often compared to Hubble, which launched in 1990 and has captured some of the most dramatic and memorable views of the cosmos, Roman’s capabilities far outpace its predecessor’s.
    Denise Chow, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2026
  • The modernization expanded advanced manufacturing across the company’s Indianapolis campus and added full engine-test capabilities, including new ground-test facilities and an altitude test facility in West Lafayette.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Goldman’s model assumes SMIC will add between 30,000 and 50,000 advanced-node wafers in monthly capacity each year from 2026 through 2031.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Furthermore, relationships themselves teach basic psychological capacities such as regulating emotions, tolerating disappointment, and negotiating differences—skills which therapy is supposed to cultivate.
    David H. Rosmarin, Time, 29 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The protein building blocks can have anti-inflammatory and muscle-building properties – though studies and safety analyses of their benefits and efficacy as supplements or injections vary widely.
    Cara Kelly, USA Today, 30 Aug. 2026
  • So if muscles start to tighten, people lose spinal mobility and lumbopelvic stability.
    Amber Raiken, Verywell Health, 29 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Might.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/might. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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