might

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might1 / mīt/ • modal verb (3rd sing. present might) 1. past of may1 , used esp.: ∎  in reported speech, expressing possibility or permission: he said he might be late. ∎  expressing a possibility based on a condition not fulfilled: we might have won if we'd played better. ∎  expressing annoyance about something that someone has not done: you might have told me! ∎  expressing purpose: he avoided social engagements so that he might work.2. used in questions and requests: ∎  tentatively asking permission: might I ask one question? ∎  expressing a polite request: you might just call me Jane, if you don't mind. ∎  asking for information, esp. condescendingly: and who might you be?3. expressing possibility: this might be true. ∎  making a suggestion: you might try nonprescription pain relievers.PHRASES: might as well1. used to make an unenthusiastic suggestion: I might as well begin.2. used to indicate that a situation is the same as if the hypothetical thing stated were true: for readers seeking illumination, this book might as well have been written in Serbo-Croatian.might have known (or guessed) used to express one's lack of surprise about something: I might have known it was you.might2 • n. great and impressive power or strength, esp. of a nation, large organization, or natural force: a convincing display of military might.PHRASES: might is right those who are powerful can do what they wish unchallenged, even if their action is in fact unjustified.with all one's might using all one's power or strength.with might and main with all one's strength or power.

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