motive

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.

According to Ortiz’s statement, Hatley provided the same motive to him that she had given her friend Hardee: With Cynthia out of the way, Ortiz would come back to her.

From Slate • Apr. 6, 2026

Europe should admit that self-preservation is now a central motive of its support.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

Officials have not issued a motive for the fires.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

The motive behind the apparent plot was not immediately clear.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

As much as I enjoyed these little adventures, I well knew that the authorities had a motive other than keeping me diverted.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela