Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

motive

[moh-tiv] / ˈmoʊ tɪv /


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.

“We cannot rationally justify a pause when a Governing Council driven by an insurance motive now faces a substantially worse inflation outlook than in March,” he added.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

None of these middling elements would be particularly grating if it weren’t so apparent that “Cars” had an ulterior capitalist motive.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

Patchett has said she had an ulterior motive for writing “Whistler.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

District Judge Waverly Crenshaw called out the government’s motive in no uncertain terms.

From Slate • May 28, 2026

No matter what the motive, Sky Witness’s plan to dismantle Mutal was brilliant—in the short run, anyway.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann




Vocabulary lists containing motive


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "motive" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com