might makes right

English

Alternative forms

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English might is right, first attested in the 14th century. The concept is expressed by various classical authors; a similar argument is notably attributed to Thrasymachus by Plato in the Republic 340a (in Paul Shorey’s translation, “the advantage of the stronger is just”).[1]

Pronunciation

  • IPA(key): /ˈmaɪ̯t meɪ̯ks ˈɹaɪ̯t/, [ˈmaɪ̯t me̞ɪ̯ks ˈɹaɪ̯t]
  • Audio (General American):(file)
  • Rhymes: -aɪt

Proverb

might makes right

  1. What is right or wrong is determined by power and strength; power justifies itself.

Usage notes

  • Frequently invoked sarcastically or with pejorative attribution to decry the immorality of one's opponent.

Translations

See also

References

  1. ^ “might is right, phr.” under “might, n.”, in OED Online ⁠, Oxford: Oxford University Press, launched 2000.
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