Pronunciation

/ˈməʊtɪv/

Definitions

• Noun: A reason for doing something, often hidden or underlying; an incentive or driving force. For example: “The main motive behind his decision was financial gain.”
• Noun (Law): Grounds or reasons that prompt a person to act in a certain way, especially those leading to a criminal offense. For instance: “Detectives were trying to uncover the murderer’s motive.”
• Adjective: Relating to or serving as a cause or reason; having the power to move to action. Example: “His motive powers were ambition and love of learning.”

Phrases

• “Motive force” refers to something that stimulates action or change.
• “Hidden motive” suggests a concealed reason or agenda behind someone’s actions.
• “Mixed motives” implies that there are multiple reasons driving a person’s behavior.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “Her primary motive for accepting the job offer was to further her career.”
• Noun (Law): “The prosecution had to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant had a motive to commit the crime.”
• Adjective: “His motive-driven approach to work has earned him numerous accolades.”

Synonyms

• Reason
• Cause
• Incentive
• Driving force
• Inspiration
• Persuasion
• Instigation
• Motivation
• Purpose
• Intentions