an ulterior motive — hidden motive
collocationC1IELTS 7+neutraloccasional
a secret reason for doing something, especially one that is different from the obvious or stated reason, often involving personal gain or advantage.
Say it like a native
Textbook I suspect he has a secret reason behind his sudden kindness.
Native I think he's got an ulterior motive.
'An ulterior motive' names a hidden, self-serving reason in two words.
Pattern: have/with an ulterior motive; suspect/detect an ulterior motive
In use
- 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
Common mistake
✗ She has an ulterior motive of helping us.
✓ She has an ulterior motive for helping us.
'An ulterior motive FOR (doing) something', not 'of'.
Common collocations
have an ulterior motive— have, for, suspect, no
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'.