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.
The motive behind the company's new scheme is simple according to Hal Stevenson, director of policy at Lime.
From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026
The motive behind the apparent plot was not immediately clear.
From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026
Guthrie said in the interview that a motive for the abduction is unclear but worries it’s possible her fame might have been a factor.
From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026
Tom has a more pressing motive than soothing petulance over illustrations.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026
“You should believe it. What other motive could there be?”
From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor
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From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.