What does motive mean Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈməʊtɪv/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A motive is a reason or explanation for why something is done, believed, or desired. It is a driving force or a motivation that influences behavior, decision-making, or actions.

Examples

1. “Her motive for donating to charity was to help those in need.”

2. “The company’s motive for introducing a new product was to increase sales and revenue.”

Synonyms

1. Reason

2. Motivation

3. Incentive

Antonyms

1. Lack of motivation

2. Uninfluenced

Additional Information

Motive is a crucial aspect of human behavior, as it drives individuals to take action, make decisions, and form opinions. Understanding one’s own motives and the motives of others can help in building relationships, resolving conflicts, and achieving personal and professional goals.

There are different types of motives, including intrinsic motives (driven by personal interest or satisfaction) and extrinsic motives (driven by external factors such as rewards or social pressure). Additionally, motives can be classified as rational (based on logic and reason) or emotional (based on feelings and intuition).

Motives are also a key concept in psychology, particularly in the fields of motivation and social psychology. Researchers have identified various theories of motivation, including the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the Self-Determination Theory, which attempt to explain the underlying factors that drive human behavior and decision-making.

In literature and creative writing, motive is a crucial aspect of character development, as it helps to create believable and relatable characters. Understanding a character’s motive can also help to build suspense, create conflict, and drive the plot forward.

Etymology

The word “motive” comes from the Latin word “motivus,” meaning “moving” or “causing motion.” It has been used in various forms since the 15th century to describe a reason or explanation for something.

Usage Notes

The word “motive” can be used in a variety of contexts, including personal and professional settings. When using the word, it is essential to consider the context and the intended meaning, as it can be misinterpreted or misunderstood.

In formal writing, such as academic or business writing, it is recommended to use the word “motive” in a more formal and objective tone. In creative writing, the word can be used more flexibly to convey the emotions and thoughts of characters.

Cultural References

The concept of motive has been explored in numerous literary works, including William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment.” In film and television, the theme of motive has been explored in movies like “Psycho” and TV shows like “Dexter.”

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

1. “Motive for murder” (a phrase used to describe a strong reason for committing a crime)

2. “Hidden motive” (a phrase used to describe a secret or underlying reason for something)

Collocations

1. “Motive for action” (a phrase used to describe a reason for taking action)

2. “Motive for decision” (a phrase used to describe a reason for making a decision)

Frequency of Use

The word “motive” is commonly used in both spoken and written language. In recent years, the word has become increasingly popular due to its use in popular culture, particularly in crime dramas and thrillers.

What does motive mean Meaning and Definition