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Showing results for ulterior. Search instead for ulteri.
Definitions

ulterior

[uhl-teer-ee-er] / ʌlˈtɪər i ər /
ADJECTIVE
secret; pertaining to a hidden goal
Synonyms
WEAK
ambiguous buried concealed covert cryptic dark enigmatic equivocal guarded hidden implied obscure obscured personal privy remote secondary selfish shrouded under cover under wraps undisclosed undivulged unexpressed unsaid
Antonyms
WEAK
expressed known overt public

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.

The law doesn’t allow ulterior motives to infect plan investments.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Ekneligoda's lawyer said his client denies the allegations, that there are ulterior motives to the allegations, and that a witness supports his version of events.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

However, he thinks Bondi’s deployment of the policy is for ulterior motives.

From Salon • Feb. 5, 2026

Many locals, she said, fear the company has ulterior motives and may one day seize their land.

From Barron's • Nov. 10, 2025

If I feel they have ulterior motives or are the slightest bit disingenuous, I try to shelter the kids from them.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.