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Showing results for ulterior. Search instead for ultraor.
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.

But there is an ulterior motive to her choice that won’t come into focus until the second half of the movie.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 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

Federline denies having an ulterior motive beyond wanting to finally share his side of this infamous saga.

From BBC • Oct. 24, 2025

Who knew what ulterior motives were hidden in the ingredients?

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas