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Motive

6 lettersnouncommon

Updated June 2026

Definition

The underlying reason or psychological drive that prompts a person or organism to act in pursuit of a goal.

The detective could not establish a clear motive for the suspect's behaviour.

Pronunciation

IPA

/ˈməʊtɪv/

Syllables

mo·tive

Related Words

Synonyms

motivationneedmotifmotormotivativemotivating

Antonyms

deterrentdiscouragement

Word Game Tips

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Wordle

Contains OTIVE, a distinctive cluster, four unique consonants make it a strong Wordle opener.

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Scrabble

Worth 11 points, V scores 4 and the word fits many board configurations.

Words Related to Motive

Words one letter different

Change a single letter of “motive” to make these 6-letter words — useful for Wordle and crossword clues.

Words you can make from Motive

Shorter words formed from the letters in “motive”.

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7-letter words you can spell by adding one letter to “motive”.

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