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

The motive for taking Ashaal was also unclear.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

The Labor Department will be ready to enforce the law if plan fiduciaries act with a disloyal motive or threaten the retirement security of American workers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

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

From Barron's • Mar. 14, 2026

“But what,” said she, after a pause, “can have been his motive? What can have induced him to behave so cruelly?”

From "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen