Words / B1

MOHT-iv/ˈməʊtɪv/

A motive is a reason for doing something, especially hidden or criminal. Motivation is already in the dictionary and is more about drive to succeed. Reason is everyday. Police: no clear motive in the assault.

Meaning

A reason for doing something, especially something hidden or criminal.

Examples

• “Police said there was no clear motive in the high-street assault.”
• “Motivation to revise is not a motive for a crime in the exam sentence.”

Good to know

a motive for + noun. Everyday: a reason. Mix-up: motivation. Crime / news. Countable reasons. Adjective: motivated (already familiar).

Near in meaning

reason

New