Might vs. Will: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on December 12, 2023
'Might' implies possibility or potential, suggesting something could happen but isn't certain. 'Will' indicates a definite intention or future occurrence, showing certainty or commitment.
Key Differences
'Might' is used to express a possibility or probability, often implying uncertainty or speculation. In contrast, 'will' is used to express certainty or a strong intention, showing a clear commitment to future action.
In terms of likelihood, 'might' suggests a lower degree of certainty compared to 'will,' which indicates a high degree of certainty or inevitability.
'Might' is often used in conditional sentences to speculate about potential outcomes or situations. On the other hand, 'will' is used to make definitive statements about future events or actions.
'Might' can also indicate a polite suggestion or a less forceful option, whereas 'will' often conveys a decision or a promise.
In questions, 'might' can imply a gentle inquiry or request, whereas 'will' is used for more direct or assured questions.
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Comparison Chart
Degree of Certainty
Implies lower certainty, possibility
Indicates high certainty, definitiveness
Usage in Sentences
Used for speculation, hypothetical situations
Used for predictions, future plans
Tone
Often conveys politeness or less assertiveness
Conveys decisiveness, commitment
Conditional Context
Common in conditional clauses, suggesting potential
Rare in conditional clauses, used for certain outcomes
Questions
Implies gentleness or indirectness in inquiries
Used for direct or confident inquiries
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Might and Will Definitions
Might
Polite suggestion.
Might I suggest a different approach?
Will
Habitual action.
He will go for a run every morning.
Might
Possibility.
She might come to the party.
Will
Promise or commitment.
She will finish the project by Monday.
Might
Indicating a less likely scenario.
He might not agree with the plan.
Will
Command or instruction.
You will complete your assignments on time.
Might
Speculative suggestion.
You might want to check the weather forecast.
Will
Definite future action.
I will attend the meeting tomorrow.
Might
Expression of uncertainty.
There might be a delay in the shipment.
Will
Predictive statement.
It will rain this evening.
Might
Great power or force, as of a nation or army.
Will
The mental faculty by which one deliberately chooses or decides upon a course of action
Championed freedom of will against a doctrine of predetermination.
Might
Physical strength
Push with all your might!.
Will
Diligent purposefulness; determination
An athlete with the will to win.
FAQs
Is "might" used for past, present, or future?
It's mainly used for present or future situations, but can imply a past action when used in certain contexts.
What does "might" indicate?
"Might" is used to express possibility or uncertainty.
Is "might" a modal verb?
Yes, it is a modal verb.
How does "might" differ from "may"?
"Might" is often seen as slightly less certain than "may."
Is "might" used in formal contexts?
Yes, it's appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.
Is "will" used for past, present, or future?
It's predominantly used for future predictions or decisions.
Can "might" indicate a suggestion?
Yes, it can be used to suggest something less assertively.
Does "might" have a past tense form?
No, "might" is the same in both present and past tense contexts.
What does "will" express?
"Will" is used to indicate future actions or events.
Can "might" express a condition?
Yes, it can express a hypothetical or conditional situation.
Can "will" express determination or promise?
Yes, it often indicates determination, promise, or strong intention.
Can "will" be used in questions?
Yes, especially in questions about future decisions or actions.
Can "will" indicate a habit?
Yes, especially in the context of habits that are likely to continue in the future.
Is "will" a modal verb?
Yes, "will" is a modal verb.
Can "might" be used in questions?
Yes, it's used in questions to express possibility.
How does "will" differ from "shall"?
"Will" is more common and generally used, while "shall" is more formal and less frequently used.
Does "will" have a past form?
Its past form is "would," used in different contexts.
Is "might" always about uncertainty?
Primarily, yes, it's used to express something that is possible but not certain.
Is "will" appropriate in formal writing?
Yes, it is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
Does "will" imply certainty?
It often implies a strong likelihood or certainty about future events.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
