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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.

The police have said two Mozambican men were killed in Western Cape province earlier this month but have not given a motive.

From BBC • Jun. 11, 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

According to Boettcher, Abdulmohsen's motive lay in a conflict with a Cologne-based refugee organisation against which he had lost a civil suit.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

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

From Slate • May 28, 2026

After exchanging pleasantries with his former student, Davis revealed the motive for his visit.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly




Vocabulary lists containing motive


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