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.

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

Guthrie said in the interview that a motive for the abduction is unclear but worries it’s possible her fame might have been a factor.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Authorities said it was too early to determine the suspect’s motive or whether there was prior intelligence concerning the person.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 12, 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