MOTIVE Synonyms: 146 Similar and Opposite Words

motive 1 of 2

noun

ˈmō-tiv

as in matter

a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition) the principal motive of the piece was introduced in the flute section

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in motif

a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) decorated with a paisley motive

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in reason

something (as a belief) that serves as the basis for another thing the detective felt that the first suspect didn't have any motive for committing the crime

Synonyms & Similar Words

motive

2 of 2

verb

as in to motivate

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun motive contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of motive are goad, impulse, incentive, inducement, and spur. While all these words mean "a stimulus to action," motive implies an emotion or desire operating on the will and causing it to act.

a motive for the crime

In what contexts can goad take the place of motive?

The synonyms goad and motive are sometimes interchangeable, but goad suggests a motive that keeps one going against one's will or desire.

thought insecurity a goad to worker efficiency

When could impulse be used to replace motive?

The meanings of impulse and motive largely overlap; however, impulse suggests a driving power arising from personal temperament or constitution.

buying on impulse

When would incentive be a good substitute for motive?

The words incentive and motive are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, incentive applies to an external influence (such as an expected reward) inciting to action.

a bonus was offered as an incentive

When is inducement a more appropriate choice than motive?

Although the words inducement and motive have much in common, inducement suggests a motive prompted by the deliberate enticements or allurements of another.

offered a watch as an inducement to subscribe

When might spur be a better fit than motive?

In some situations, the words spur and motive are roughly equivalent. However, spur applies to a motive that stimulates the faculties or increases energy or ardor.

fear was a spur to action

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of motive

Noun

Concerns about security for CEOs Police have not yet confirmed the shooter’s identity or motive. —

Patrik Jonsson, The Christian Science Monitor, 6 Dec. 2024 Officials are yet to release the name of the suspect, update information on his identity and provide a motive for the killing. Follow me on Twitter. —

Stephen Pastis, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

Verb

Police are investigating the circumstances and motive around the shooting and have not announced any arrests. —

Dallas News, 18 May 2022 The coming together of both aspects of his game has also led him to become more vocal on the court, both to keep himself motivated and to motive others. —

oregonlive, 5 Aug. 2020 See all Example Sentences for motive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for motive

Noun

Inking Conforto for $17 million certainly stabilizes matters.

Fabian Ardaya, The Athletic, 10 Dec. 2024
In the meantime, merchants should take matters into their own hands, said Eric Cohen, chief executive of Merchant Advocate, which helps businesses reduce their fees and take a cut of the savings.

Medora Lee, USA TODAY, 10 Dec. 2024