motive
Translation
motive, reason, grounds
Examples
The police are investigating the motive for the crime.
The police are investigating the motive for the crime.
His motive was to help his family.
His motive was to help his family.
Grammar Patterns
motive for ((sth.)) a reason for doing something The police are investigating the motive for the crime.
motive to ((do sth.)) a reason to do something He had no motive to commit the crime.
Similar Words
Synonyms: reason, cause, purpose, incentive
Etymology
From Latin 'motivus' (moving), from 'movere' (to move). It's the root of 'motion'.
Memory Tips
The 'motive' is what 'moves' a person to act, especially in a legal or psychological context.