hidden motive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hidden motive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an underlying reason for someone's actions that is not immediately apparent or openly stated. Example: "While he claimed to be helping her, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was a hidden motive behind his generosity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Did he have some hidden motive?

The New Yorker

But with TV-6 the hidden motive is obvious.

The New York Times

He even suspected a hidden motive in the Standard Chartered affair.

The New York Times

At least we got to know what George Stark's hidden motive was: he didn't have one.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

One popular one points to the film's Medieval elements, while another presents a possible hidden motive for Kylo Ren.

Independent

Looking back, I can't help thinking that Hanssen also had a hidden motive for first becoming my friend.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Many sensed hidden motives behind the drumbeat of war.

The New York Times

The National Autonomous University says this is a separate issue and that Aguirre has hidden motives for shutting up shop.

The Guardian

However, the discovery of the two villages has stalled the process, with both sides claiming hidden motives.

The New York Times

We are drawn to the idea of conspiracy because it resonates with us; we understand the idea of people being self-interested and not having our best interests at heart, and having hidden motives and getting together to do shady stuff.

The Guardian

They wonder whether there are hidden motives behind the effort -- to convince the public that the government is working hard to fight terrorism; to isolate foreigners who do not agree to the voluntary interviews for more scrutiny, or to compile a dossier of a segment of the population now deemed suspicious.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hidden motive" to express suspicion or doubt about someone's true intentions. It's particularly useful in persuasive writing.

Common error

Avoid using "hidden motive" when you simply mean someone lacks motivation. A "hidden motive" implies a deliberate, underlying reason, not just a lack of enthusiasm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hidden motive" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. Ludwig AI indicates its usage is grammatically sound and readily found in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hidden motive" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase that suggests an underlying, often unstated, reason for someone's actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalence across various domains, particularly in News & Media. Alternatives like "ulterior motive" and "secret agenda" offer similar meanings. When employing the phrase, ensure that it truly reflects a concealed intention, not simply a lack of motivation. Remember that exploring potential "hidden motives" can enrich both your writing and your understanding of human behavior.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ulterior motive

A motive that is concealed and different from the stated or apparent motive.

secret agenda

Implies a plan or goal that is deliberately kept hidden.

underlying reason

Focuses on the foundational cause that isn't immediately obvious.

covert purpose

Highlights the secretive nature of the intention.

unspoken intention

Emphasizes that the motive is not explicitly communicated.

concealed aim

Focuses on the goal being hidden from view.

masked agenda

Suggests the motive is disguised behind a facade.

veiled purpose

Indicates the purpose is covered or obscured.

private agenda

Emphasizes the personal and confidential nature of the motive.

unstated goal

Highlights that the objective is not openly declared.

FAQs

What does "hidden motive" mean?

A "hidden motive" refers to a reason for doing something that is not openly expressed or easily perceived. It suggests an underlying, often less obvious, intention driving someone's actions.

What are some synonyms for "hidden motive"?

Alternatives to "hidden motive" include "ulterior motive", "secret agenda", or "underlying reason", depending on the context.

How can I use "hidden motive" in a sentence?

You might say, "I suspect there's a "hidden motive" behind his sudden generosity", or "The detective was determined to uncover the suspect's "hidden motive"".

What's the difference between "hidden motive" and "ulterior motive"?

"Hidden motive" and "ulterior motive" are very similar. "Ulterior motive" often carries a stronger connotation of deception or self-interest.