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.
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
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
Thames Valley Police said a 51-year-old man from Milton Keynes remained in custody and it urged people not to speculate as to the motive.
From BBC • Apr. 26, 2026
Meanwhile, authorities continue to execute search warrants and gather evidence, with additional details about the suspect’s background and possible motive expected in the coming days.
From Salon • Apr. 26, 2026
An overwhelmingly strong motive made the ship anchor there.
From "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" by Edith Hamilton
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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