Synonyms for

Motivations

Verb / ˌməʊtʌˈveɪʃʌnz / Another word for motivations — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Motivations are the reasons why someone does something or behaves in a certain way.

Synonyms & similar words

need motivating motive motivation reasons drives incentives stimuli impulses desires ambitions goals aspirations wants needs compulsions urges cravings yearnings passions obsessions fascinations preoccupations fixations

Synonyms by register

Formal

impetus rationale grounds incentive

Informal

reasons drives whys what makes someone tick

Literary

zeal ardor purpose

Antonyms

apathy indifference lethargy disinterest lassitude unconcern

Common collocations

  • strong motivations
  • lack of motivation
  • personal motivations
  • primary motivation
  • hidden motivations
  • explore motivations
  • understand motivations
  • shared motivations

Word family

noun motivation
verb motivate
adjective motivational
adverb motivatively

Usage note

While 'motivations' is often used to refer to the reasons behind an action, it can also refer to the general desire or willingness to do something. Be mindful of context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. My motivation for exercising is to stay healthy.
  2. She has motivations for starting her own business.
  3. His motivations for volunteering are to help others.
  4. What are your motivations for learning a new language?
  5. The teacher tries to understand her students' motivations for learning.

Quotes

  • "The only true motivation comes from within." - Robert J. Donovan
  • "Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going." - Jim Rohn
  • "Motivation is the art of getting people to do what you want them to do because they want to do it." - Dwight D. Eisenhower

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