1
as in themes
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
2
as in motifs
a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric)
decorated with a paisley motive
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
as in reasons
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
as in motivates
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motives
Noun
-
YouTube Kapadia's skill in drawing out these themes has been widely acclaimed.—
Diaa Hadid,
NPR,
24 Dec. 2024 -
These themes complement the primary Christian story of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection.—
Priscilla Whitehead,
Sun Sentinel,
24 Dec. 2024
Noun
-
Their distinct motifs celebrate the art of printmaking and are an ongoing source of inspiration for the latest generation of designers.—
Nadja Sayej,
Forbes,
27 Feb. 2025
-
The apparel collection of Dodgers and Cubs products will include Nike T-shirts, hoodies and jerseys featuring Murakami’s flower motifs.—
Kristie Rieken,
Chicago Tribune,
27 Feb. 2025
Verb
-
Truly Listen to Your Employees Take time to understand what motivates your team members.—
Glenn Llopis,
Forbes.com,
29 Mar. 2025
-
Recognition fosters a culture of appreciation, which motivates employees to bring their best selves to work.—
Luciana Paulise,
Forbes.com,
29 Mar. 2025
Noun
-
Brendel Hightower writes about real estate and other topics for the Detroit Free Press.—
Brendel Hightower,
Detroit Free Press,
24 Dec. 2024
-
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter and get expert advice on topics like money, relationships, health and more.—
Malaka Gharib,
NPR,
23 Dec. 2024
Verb
-
But Berner would still be white — specifically, the kind of white girl who gets in the face of a Black woman and yells at her that her mere existence inspires violence.—
Kathleen Newman-Bremang,
refinery29.com,
10 Mar. 2025
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The moon’s connection to Mercury inspires trust.—
USA TODAY,
USA TODAY,
10 Mar. 2025
Verb
-
Catholic social teaching, which is founded on the life and words of Jesus Christ and built on a commitment to the poor and the strangers among us, guides this work and animates those individuals who financially support it.—
William McCarthy,
Baltimore Sun,
5 Feb. 2025
-
The film documents & animates Peter’s experiences as well as those of the family in Toronto.—
Matthew Carey,
Deadline,
24 Jan. 2025
Verb
-
Aries season energizes your network of support.—
USA TODAY,
USA TODAY,
20 Mar. 2025
-
Fiery Orange Similar to bright red, a fiery orange hue energizes the body and mind instead of calming it.—
Maria Sabella,
Better Homes & Gardens,
5 Mar. 2025
Verb
-
Johnson immediately lets out an expletive and quickly drives past the animal.—
Brayden Garcia,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
11 Apr. 2025
-
Jamie, a certified avian behavior consultant with over 30 years of experience, drives this educational focus.—
Hilary Tetenbaum,
USA Today,
10 Apr. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Motives.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motives. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.
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