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motivea reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: a reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious

Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈmoʊtɪv/

Korean meaning: 동기, 이유

Korean pronunciation: **모**티브

Example Sentences

  • The detective couldn't figure out the motive behind stealing 100 rubber ducks.
  • Her motive for learning English was to understand K-pop lyrics better.
  • The police are investigating the motive for the crime.

motive

NOUN

//ˈmoʊtɪv//

a reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious

motive concept
💡 Concept

A motive drives a student studying with hidden determination and purpose

motive rhyme
🎵 Rhyme

The motive is a hidden light of initiative — when the heart votes for action, nothing can stay native to doubt

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ˈmoʊtɪv/
🇬🇧 UK/ˈməʊtɪv/

🌳Etymology

Rootmov
Suffix--tive

Origin

From Latin 'motivus' meaning 'moving' or 'causing motion,' derived from the verb 'movere' meaning 'to move.' The word entered English through Old French 'motif' in the 14th century.

🎵Rhyme

otivevotiveemotive
otive
votive
emotive

🔗Collocations

ulterior motive
motive for murder
profit motive
find a motive
clear motive
motive force
lack of motive

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

The detective couldn't figure out the motive behind stealing 100 rubber ducks.

Her motive for learning English was to understand K-pop lyrics better.

The police are investigating the motive for the crime.

😄 Fun example

His only motive for exercising was to eat more pizza guilt-free.

📚Related Words

Synonyms

reasonpurposeintentionincentivemotivation

Antonyms

discouragementdeterrent

Related

motivationmotormovementmotivateemotion

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