mightmodal verb
Might is used to say that something is possible, but not very certain, in the present, the past, or as a very polite suggestion.
possible, not certainused to say that something is possible, though perhaps not very likely
Might, may, and could are often used interchangeably for this kind of possibility; where a difference is felt, might can suggest a little less certainty than may.
verb + bare infinitive [V + inf]
- It might snow tonight. V + inf
- She might already be there. V + inf
- I might be wrong about this. V + inf
might haveused with have and a past participle to say that something was possible in the past, though it may or may not have actually happened
Often used when the speaker does not know the true outcome, or to imagine what could have gone differently.
- He might have missed the train; he isn't answering his phone.
- You might have told me you were bringing a guest!
- If we had left earlier, we might have avoided the traffic.
Compare could (could have and might have are both used for an unrealized past possibility, often with little difference in meaning)
gentle suggestionused to make a gentle suggestion, or, in a formal question with I, to ask very politely if something is allowed
You might want to... is a common, neutral way to give advice. Might I...? is more formal and asks permission very politely.
verb + bare infinitive [V + inf]
- Might I suggest a different approach? V + inf (formal)
- You might want to double-check those numbers. V + inf (neutral, everyday advice)
- Might I ask why you're leaving so soon? V + inf (formal)
Compare could (might I...? is a more formal way to ask permission than could I...?)
Phrases
Usage
Might, may, and could overlap heavily for present or future possibility, and many speakers use them interchangeably. Might have and could have overlap the same way for an unrealized or uncertain past possibility.