Words / C2

ul-TEERR-ee-uh/ʌlˈtɪəriə/

Ulterior, almost always of motive, means hidden behind the stated one: an ulterior motive. Hidden and secret are everyday; ultimate (see ultimately in the dictionary) is last or most important — a classic mix-up. Ulterior is not a fancy “further”. Do not write ulterior goal if you mean final goal (ultimate).

Meaning

Hidden, of a motive that is not the one stated (ulterior motive).

Examples

• “The free workshop had an ulterior motive: a mailing list.”
• “The free webinar had an ulterior motive: a sales list, not a public service.”
• “An ultimate aim is the last one you want; an ulterior motive is the one you did not admit.”

Good to know

Hidden (almost always ulterior motive). Mix-up: ultimate (final / most important). Everyday: hidden. Not “further”.

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