motive

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.

Officials have not issued a motive for the fires.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

The Labor Department will be ready to enforce the law if plan fiduciaries act with a disloyal motive or threaten the retirement security of American workers.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

The motive for taking Ashaal was also unclear.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

The motive behind the apparent plot was not immediately clear.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

But he had to stand here until that picture came back, that motive, that driving desire to escape the law.

From "Native Son" by Richard Wright