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Discover LudwigThe phrase "the motive" is correct and usable in written English
You can use this phrase to refer to the underlying cause of an action. For example, "The motive for the suspect's behavior was unclear."
Dictionary
the motive
adjective
Causing motion; having power to move, or tending to move; as, a motive argument; motive power.
Exact(58)
The motive?
The motive was greed.
The motive is murkier.
The motive is unknown.
"The motive is intimidation".
The motive was unclear.
The motive remains unclear.
What is the motive?
The motive is unclear.
The motive seems clear.
Similar(1)
The motive was sadly predictable.
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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com