Definitions

motive

[moh-tiv] / ˈmoʊ tɪv /

NOUN

reason, purpose

Synonyms

STRONGEST

aim cause consideration emotion feeling idea impulse influence intent intention motivation passion rationale

STRONG

antecedent basis design determinant drive end grounds incentive incitement inducement inspiration mainspring object occasion root spring spur stimulus thinking

Antonyms

STRONGEST

neglect thoughtlessness

STRONG

discouragement hindrance

WEAK

deterrent

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But the judge said Bembridge had a public role and had failed to carry out his duties on behalf of the King for a corrupting motive.

From BBC

But there is an ulterior motive to her choice that won’t come into focus until the second half of the movie.

From The Wall Street Journal

Whatever the motive, the effect is the same.

From The Wall Street Journal

Police have not given a motive, but said it appeared to be a family dispute.

From BBC

There is a possible motive for the police to try to frame Benguit - their failure to stop a suspected murderer from killing again.

From BBC