adj
ulterior
uhl-TEER-reer
adj
1
Hidden or undisclosed, especially when describing a motive meant to deceive.
"She suspected he had an ulterior motive for being so friendly."
"His generous offer masked an ulterior purpose."
How to Use Ulterior
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishKept hidden on purpose, usually because the real reason isn't an honest one.
Common pairings
ulterior motive
no ulterior motive
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She suspected he had an _____ motive for being so friendly.
Etymology
From Latin "ulterior", meaning "further" or "more distant" — the sense shifted to mean something concealed "beyond" what is visible.