motive crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the "motive crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, explanations, and tips to help you conquer your puzzle.
Solutions for "motive crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SPUR: A thing that prompts or encourages someone; an incentive.
5 Letters
CAUSE: A reason for an action or condition.
6 Letters
REASON: A cause, explanation, or justification for an action or event.
GROUND: A basis for belief, action, or argument.
7 Letters
IMPULSE: A sudden strong and unreflective urge or desire to act.
PURPOSE: The reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.
9 Letters
INCENTIVE: A thing that motivates or encourages one to do something.
More About "motive crossword clue"
The term "motive" is a classic in crossword puzzles, often appearing with various synonyms that describe the underlying reason or drive behind an action. Understanding these nuanced meanings is key to selecting the correct answer. Crossword setters love to play on the subtle differences between words like 'reason,' 'cause,' 'purpose,' and 'incentive,' all of which can describe a 'motive' in different contexts.
When you encounter "motive" in a crossword, think about what kind of motive the clue is hinting at. Is it an emotional drive (impulse)? A logical justification (reason)? Or something that incites action (spur, incentive)? The surrounding clues and the number of letters will usually guide you to the precise word needed to complete your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter when multiple synonyms exist for a clue like "motive."
- Examine Crossing Letters: Once you have a potential answer, fill it in and check if the letters align with other clues. This is the most reliable way to confirm your solution, especially when dealing with common words.
- Consider Nuances: Pay close attention to any subtle phrasing in the clue that might narrow down the meaning. For example, "driving motive" might point more strongly to "impulse" or "spur" than just "reason."
- Think of Synonyms: For common crossword clues like "motive," actively brainstorm all possible synonyms and their lengths before looking them up. This trains your brain and improves your solving speed over time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "motive" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "motive" typically refers to a reason, cause, or underlying drive for an action or event. Common synonyms include REASON, CAUSE, IMPULSE, PURPOSE, GROUND, SPUR, or INCENTIVE. The specific answer will depend on the length required and surrounding letters.
How do I choose the correct "motive" answer when multiple options fit the length?
When multiple answers for "motive" fit the letter count, the best strategy is to look at the crossing letters from other clues. These will often reveal which specific word is correct. Also, consider any subtle nuances in the clue's wording that might point to a particular synonym.
Are there common synonyms for "motive" often used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for "motive" frequently seen in crosswords include REASON, CAUSE, GROUND, IMPULSE, PURPOSE, SPUR, and INCENTIVE. Familiarity with these words and their subtle differences can greatly assist in solving.