OpenSynonym

motive

The word “motive” has 2 syllables: mo-tive

It's pronounced as /ˈmoʊ.tɪv/

What is synonym and antonym for motive?

In the thesaurus, “motive” has 146 synonyms and 19 antonyms.

Here are synonyms and antonyms for motive along with examples of usage in sentences.

Synonyms for motive

Antonyms for motive

Meanings of motive

  • noun
    1. An idea or communication that makes one want to act, especially from spiritual sources; a divine prompting.
    2. An incentive to act in a particular way; a reason or emotion that makes one want to do something; anything that prompts a choice of action.
    3. A limb or other bodily organ that can move.
    4. Something which causes someone to want to commit a crime; a reason for criminal behaviour.
    5. A motif.
    6. A motif; a theme or subject, especially one that is central to the work or often repeated.
  • verb
    1. To prompt or incite by a motive or motives; to move.
  • adjective
    1. Causing motion; having power to move, or tending to move.
    2. Relating to motion and/or to its cause.

Example Sentences

  • The detective tried to discover the motive behind the crime.
  • Money was not his main motive for starting the business.
  • She questioned his true motive for offering help.
  • The police found no clear motive for the attack.
  • Understanding the motive can explain the decision.

On this page you'll find 165 synonyms, antonyms, or another words to motive, such as: abet, account, activate, adornment, affair, aggravate, aim.

Make sure to choose synonyms and antonyms that are appropriate for the context of the sentence.

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