a reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious, a motif in art, literature, or music

with motive, motive behind the action, motive for the crime

ulterior motive, motive power, motive force

Formal and Informal Expressions of motive

In different contexts, you can replace 'motive' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'reason, purpose, intention' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'why, what for' is a commonplace synonym.

motive: Explore its Definition & Usage

motive Definition

1a reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious
2a motif in art, literature, or music

Using motive: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "motive" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The police are still trying to determine the motive behind the crime.
Example
She had no motive for lying.
Example
The motive behind his generosity was finally revealed.
Example
The painting's central motive is a woman holding a bouquet of flowers.

motive Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for motive

Antonyms for motive

Idioms Using motive

with motive
with a clear reason or purpose
Example
He acted with motive when he decided to start his own business.
motive behind the action
the reason or purpose for doing something
Example
The motive behind her decision to quit her job was to spend more time with her family.
motive for the crime
the reason or purpose for committing a crime
Example
The detectives were trying to determine the motive for the crime.

Phrases with motive

ulterior motive
a hidden reason for doing something
Example
I'm sure he has an ulterior motive for offering to help us.
motive power
the power or energy used to move a machine or vehicle
Example
The steam engine was the first form of motive power used in transportation.
motive force
the force that causes an object to move or change its motion
Example
Gravity is the motive force that keeps planets in orbit around the sun.

Origins of motive

from Old French 'motif', meaning 'a theme or subject'

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Summary: motive in Brief

The term 'motive' [ˈməʊtɪv] refers to a reason or purpose for doing something, often hidden or not obvious. It can also refer to a motif in art, literature, or music. Examples include 'The police are still trying to determine the motive behind the crime.' and 'The painting's central motive is a woman holding a bouquet of flowers.' Phrases like 'ulterior motive' denote hidden reasons, while 'motive power' and 'motive force' refer to energy sources.