motives

NOUN

reason, purpose

Synonyms

STRONGEST

aim cause consideration emotion feeling idea impulse influence intent intention motivation passion rationale

STRONG

antecedent basis design determinant drive end grounds incentive incitement inducement inspiration mainspring object occasion root spring spur stimulus thinking

Antonyms

STRONGEST

neglect thoughtlessness

STRONG

discouragement hindrance

WEAK

deterrent

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.

See Examples For:

motives

Berlin has so far refused to speculate on the motives or identity of those responsible for the incident at Leipzig.

From Barron's ● Aug. 18, 2026

He also urged people to rely solely on official information and not to "spread unverified rumours" about the motives behind the shooting or the attacker's identity.

From BBC ● Aug. 4, 2026

The remarks drew skepticism and questions about his motives.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 3, 2026

How can we not wonder about ulterior motives?

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 24, 2026

To the Pilgrims, the Indians’ motives for the deal were obvious.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann