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.

It is unclear who owned the guns used in the attack, or what was the motive.

From BBC

The motive for the attack remains unclear, although local media reports suggest the suspect may have had a grievance with a teacher at the school.

From BBC

The police also said they were investigating the attacker's possible motives and whether the suspect had any connection to the school.

From BBC

The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has downplayed the violence, attributing many incidents to criminal motives.

From Barron's

According to police figures released in January, out of 645 incidents involving members of minority groups in 2025 -- only 12 percent were classified as having a sectarian motive.

From Barron's