Synonyms for

Motives

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

Definition

Motives are the reasons or intentions behind someone's actions or behavior.

Synonyms & similar words

motivation motif need motive theme reasons intentions purposes rationales grounds causes mainsprings drives incentives stimuli spurs triggers impetuses impulses motivations inspirations ambitions aspirations desires wants

Synonyms by register

Formal

rationale impetus grounds purposes

Informal

reasons drives whys

Literary

springs wellsprings wellheads

Antonyms

reasons causes grounds justifications origins impetuses

Common collocations

  • ulterior motives
  • hidden motives
  • base motives
  • noble motives
  • clear motives
  • understand the motives
  • question the motives
  • examine the motives

Word family

noun motive
verb motivate
adjective motivational
adverb motivatively

Usage note

While 'motives' often refers to the reasons behind an action, it can sometimes carry a negative connotation, especially when implying hidden or selfish intentions (e.g., 'ulterior motives').

Example sentences

  1. I don't understand why he did it; what were his motives?
  2. Her motives for studying medicine were to help people.
  3. The detective tried to uncover the killer's motives.
  4. I think he has ulterior motives for offering to help.
  5. The politician's motives for passing the law were questioned by the public.

Quotes

  • 'All men have their frailties; and whoever looks for a friend without imperfections, will never find what he seeks.' - Samuel Johnson
  • 'The only true motive for the conduct of mankind is self-interest.' - Hamilton
  • 'The greatest of motives is the approval of one's conscience.' - James Russell Lowell

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words