# might as well

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/might-as-well
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Used to express somewhat reluctant assent, saying that if one situation exists (or because it does exist), another event or situation that would otherwise be undesirable, difficult, impossible, etc., becomes more feasible or reasonable, or would not make a difference.

## Examples

- Since the bus is late, we might as well walk.
- The movie is already half over, so we might as well stay until the end to see how it finishes.
- Given that the project has already exceeded its budget, the board decided they might as well approve the final phase to ensure the work was not entirely in vain.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.