ulterior
4 synonyms and 1 antonym for ulterior, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Hidden or undisclosed, especially when describing a motive meant to deceive.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
subterranean
subterraneous
Antonyms
How to use ulterior
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
ulterior motive
no ulterior motive
Etymology
From Latin "ulterior", meaning "further" or "more distant" — the sense shifted to mean something concealed "beyond" what is visible.
Full origin of ulterior →Frequently asked questions
What does “ulterior” mean?
The word “ulterior” means hidden or undisclosed, especially when describing a motive meant to deceive. In plain terms, kept hidden on purpose, usually because the real reason isn't an honest one.
How do you pronounce “ulterior”?
“Ulterior” is pronounced uhl-TEER-reer (/ʌlˈtɪɚ.i.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “ulterior” in a sentence?
Here is “ulterior” used in a sentence: “She suspected he had an ulterior motive for being so friendly.”
What part of speech is “ulterior”?
“Ulterior” is an adjective.
Where does the word “ulterior” come from?
The word “ulterior” comes from Latin. From Latin "ulterior", meaning "further" or "more distant" — the sense shifted to mean something concealed "beyond" what is visible.
