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Showing results for ulterior motive.
Definitions

ulterior motive

[uhl-teer-ee-er moh-tiv] / ʌlˈtɪər i ər ˈmoʊ tɪv /
NOUN
hidden agenda
Synonyms
WEAK
ax to grind parti pris prejudice
NOUN
purpose
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ambition aspiration desire determination direction function goal idea intent objective plan principle project reason scheme scope view wish
STRONG
animus bourn calculation design destination dream drift end expectation hope mecca mission object point premeditation proposal proposition prospect resolve will
WEAK
big idea intendment whatfor where one's headed whole idea why and wherefore whyfor
Antonyms
STRONGEST
dislike hate hatred
STRONG
beginning start
NOUN
reason
Synonyms
STRONGEST
argument basis cause consideration goal idea impetus incentive motivation motive proof purpose rationale
STRONG
antecedent design determinant end grounds inducement object occasion root spring target warrant wherefore why
WEAK
why and wherefore whyfor
Antonyms
STRONGEST
block discouragement hindrance

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

But the “Severance” creator reveals an ulterior motive in that confrontation.

From Salon • Feb. 15, 2025

“It’s not unwelcome,” says Andrew Brown, Neon’s president of digital distribution, laughing over Zoom when this possibly devious ulterior motive is mentioned.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 13, 2025

He also denied any "conspiracy theories" over the decision, telling reporters in Brussels there was no ulterior motive or new job on the cards.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2024

What if he'd lied out of some ulterior motive of his own?

From "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison