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

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

Perhaps she has an ulterior motive; so many of these characters do.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 19, 2025

“Don’t say that. You haven’t found out about my ulterior motives yet.”

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth