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 for taking Ashaal was also unclear.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

"And that motive likely underlies this launch as well," he added.

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

The sheriff investigating the kidnapping of Nancy Guthrie, mother of US TV presenter Savannah Guthrie, says authorities believe they have a motive, but have not identified a suspect.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

My motive for investigating these geographic differences in human societies is not to celebrate one type of society over another but simply to understand what happened in history.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond