Grammar fix
an ulterior motive
hidden motive
a secret reason for doing something, especially one that is different from the obvious or stated reason, often involving personal gain or advantage.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- He offered to help, but I couldn't shake the feeling that he had an ulterior motive.relationships
- In some workplaces, people may volunteer for extra tasks with an ulterior motive, such as seeking a promotion or special recognition.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: have/with an ulterior motive; suspect/detect an ulterior motive
WrongShe has an ulterior motive of helping us.
RightShe has an ulterior motive for helping us.
'An ulterior motive FOR (doing) something', not 'of'.
Patternhave/with an ulterior motive; suspect/detect an ulterior motive
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'An ulterior motive' names a hidden, self-serving reason in two words.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
have an ulterior motivehaveforsuspectno
Don't confuse it
Unlike a simple 'reason' or 'motivation', 'an ulterior motive' always implies that the real reason is hidden and possibly dishonest or self-serving. It is more negative and suspicious than just 'a motive'.