motive
Translation
reason, purpose
Examples
The police are unsure of the motive for the crime.
The police are unsure of the motive for the crime.
His motive was to help his family.
His motive was to help his family.
Grammar Patterns
((for sth.)) a reason for doing (sth.) The police are unsure of the motive for the crime.
Similar Words
Synonyms: reason, purpose, incentive, cause
Etymology
From Latin 'motivus' (moving). A motive is the reason that 'moves' someone to act.
Memory Tips
A 'motive' is what 'moves' a person to do something, especially in a crime story.