motive

US /ˈmoʊ.t̬ɪv/
UK /ˈmoʊ.t̬ɪv/
"motive" picture
1.

a reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious

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The police are still investigating the killer's motive.
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What was her motive for lying?
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reasoncauseimpetusincentivegrounds
1.

to provide with a motive; to impel

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His desire for revenge motivated him to act.
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The promise of a bonus motivated the team to work harder.
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inspirestimulateencouragespurpropel
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motivationmotivateself-motivated