motive

Motive is part of the Academic Word List. It is important for students in college and university.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA: /ˈməʊtɪv/
• (US) IPA: /ˈmoʊtɪv/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

Noun

Singular motive

Plural motives

1. A motive is a reason to do something.

   The man says he has no motive for killing his wife.

   What are the motives behind this change?

Synonyms

• motivation

Related words

• motivate