motive in German
motive in German is Motiv, Beweggrund — motive means a reason that drives someone to act, especially in a suspicious or criminal context.
motive in German
Motiv
(law) Something which causes someone to want to commit a crime; a reason for criminal behaviour. [from 18th c.]
Beweggrund
(law) Something which causes someone to want to commit a crime; a reason for criminal behaviour. [from 18th c.]
What does "motive" mean?
-
noun A reason that drives someone to act, especially in a suspicious or criminal context.
"The detective asked what motive anyone could have for taking the painting."
-
adj Causing or producing movement.
"A falling weight was the motive power for the old clock."
Vocabulary Flow
Learn more English words in German.
Vocabulary Flow serves English words with the German meaning, one at a time — pronunciation and an example each time. Scroll it either direction.
Learn English in German
motive in a sentence
- The detective asked what motive anyone could have for taking the painting.
- Police still haven't established a motive for the break-in.
- A falling weight was the motive power for the old clock.
- The engine supplies the motive energy that turns the wheels.
Similar words in German
Common German translations
Frequently asked questions
What is "motive" in German?
"motive" in German is Motiv, Beweggrund. motive means: A reason that drives someone to act, especially in a suspicious or criminal context.
How do you use "motive" in a sentence?
Example: "The detective asked what motive anyone could have for taking the painting." In German, "motive" is Motiv, Beweggrund.
Are there other ways to say "motive" in German?
Yes — German has 2 translations listed for "motive": Motiv, Beweggrund.
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Vocabulary Flow — saved to your collection.
