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.
One’s really good with forensics, the other is really good with motive and story.
From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026
Police said late Monday said there was "no basis on current knowledge" to assume a political or religious motive on the part of the perpetrator.
From Barron's • May 4, 2026
Blanche, speaking to NBC News, said the alleged gunman's motive is still under investigation, but that "preliminary" findings suggest he was targeting administration officials.
From BBC • Apr. 26, 2026
Police haven’t shared a motive or target, but they said they believe he was working alone.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026
“She must have some motive, more powerful than appears, for refusing this invitation,” was Emma’s conclusion.
From "Emma" by Jane Austen
Vocabulary lists containing motive
The SAT: Language of the Test, List 3
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The New SAT: The Language of the Test
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Twelve Angry Men
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