Could vs Might
What’s the difference between them?
Could
Meaning:
could is an auxiliary verb that is used to indicate possibility or past ability. It can also be used to make requests or offer permission.
Examples:
1. Could you please pass the salt?
2. I wasn't sure if I could trust him.
3. I'm not sure if I could ever forgive him.
Might
Meaning:
used to indicate possibility, permission, or power.
Examples:
1. He might have already left the house.
2. She might have forgotten about the meeting.
3. We might go on a trip next weekend.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Could
1. May
2. Might
3. Be permitted
4. Have the ability
5. Be allowed
1. Cannot
2. Shouldn't
3. Would not
4. Refuse
5. Disallow
Might
1. Capability
2. Potency
3. Power
4. Authority
5. Possibility
1. Weakness
2. Impotence
3. Inability
4. Powerlessness
5. Impuissance
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Could", "Might".
1. 'Could' is a modal verb used to indicate a general or specific ability, permission, or possibility. It is versatile and can be used in various ways.
2. It can suggest a potential action or outcome that is within the realm of possibility but is not necessarily certain.
3. 'Might' is also a modal verb used to express a possibility, but it often conveys a sense of uncertainty or a lower degree of probability compared to 'could.'
4. It is often used to suggest a slight or hypothetical chance of something happening.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
'Could' should be used when there is potential for something to happen but you are unsure or less certain about it. For example, 'It could rain today.'
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'Might' should be used when you are suggesting a possibility or when you are making a suggestion. For example, 'We might go to the park today.'
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. 'Could' is pronounced with a long 'o' sound, whereas 'Might' is pronounced with a short 'i' sound.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make is to use 'could' when they should use 'might'. Another mistake is using 'could' to express permission. For example, 'Could I have a cookie?' should be 'May I have a cookie?'.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. If you have any questions, you ____ ask me.
2. We ____ be able to find a solution if we work together.
3. If you finish your homework early, you ____ have some extra time to relax before bedtime.
4. He ____ not have expected such a response.
5. We ____ have to take a different approach.
6. She ____ have been more careful.
1. If you have any questions, you could ask me.
Explanation: The word could implies that it is possible to ask me questions, but does not put any pressure to do so.
2. We might be able to find a solution if we work together.
Explanation: The word might implies that there is a possibility that a solution can be found, but it is not certain.
3. If you finish your homework early, you might have some extra time to relax before bedtime.
Explanation: In this sentence, might is used to express a possibility or likelihood that the person will have extra time if they complete their homework early.
4. He might not have expected such a response.
Explanation: The word might implies that it is possible that he did not expect such a response, but it is not certain.
5. We might have to take a different approach.
Explanation: The word might implies that there is a possibility that a different approach will have to be taken, but it is not certain.
6. She could have been more careful.
Explanation: The word could implies that it is possible that she could have been more careful, but does not put any pressure to do so.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.