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.

Prosecutors allege the cases are connected through personal relationships and planning, though they have not publicly detailed a broader motive beyond those ties.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 31, 2026

The motive behind the apparent plot was not immediately clear.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

Tom has a more pressing motive than soothing petulance over illustrations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

Nanos declined to elaborate on the suspected motive, as he said it could compromise the integrity of the ongoing investigation to do so.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

Motive, she added, was very important: what was her motive in concealing from her parents the time she spent with Ishmael?

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson