motives crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! This page provides all possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "motives". Whether you're stuck or just looking to verify your answer, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "motives crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
CAUSES: The origins or factors that lead to an action or result, often serving as a motive.
DRIVES: Strong inner urges or impulses that compel one to act, functioning as powerful motives.
7 Letters
REASONS: The justifications or explanations for actions, decisions, or beliefs, which are fundamental motives.
SPRINGS: (as in "springs of action") The underlying sources or origins from which actions or behaviors emerge, akin to motives.
8 Letters
IMPULSES: Sudden, strong urges to act without prior thought or deliberation, often serving as immediate motives.
More About "motives crossword clue"
"Motives" in the context of a crossword clue typically refers to the underlying reasons, intentions, or impulses that drive an individual or group to act. These clues often test your vocabulary for synonyms related to purpose, cause, and rationale. Understanding the subtle differences between words like "reasons," "causes," and "drives" can be crucial for selecting the correct answer, especially when a specific letter count is required.
Crossword setters love using "motives" because it has a rich semantic field, allowing for a variety of valid answers depending on the nuance they wish to convey. For instance, a clue might hint at the psychological aspect (like "impulses") or a more logical justification (like "reasons"). Always consider the context of other intersecting words to help confirm your choice.
The clue "motives" can sometimes appear in conjunction with specific fields, such as criminal investigation (e.g., "Motive for the crime"). In such cases, the answers might lean towards terms used in that domain, further expanding the potential pool of solutions. Mastering these variations is key to becoming a proficient crossword solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "motives," consider if the answer needs to be singular or plural, and if it refers to a logical reason, an emotional urge, or a driving force.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify that your potential answer fits the exact number of squares provided. This is the simplest yet most effective filter.
- Look at Intersecting Words: Use the letters you've already filled in from other clues to narrow down the possibilities for "motives." Sometimes, just one confirmed letter can unlock the entire word.
- Think of Context: If the puzzle has a theme or other clues suggest a particular field (e.g., psychology, law), this might hint at a more specialized synonym for "motives."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'motives' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'motives' typically refers to the reasons, causes, or intentions behind someone's actions. Clues for 'motives' often seek synonyms like REASONS, CAUSES, DRIVES, or IMPULSES, depending on the specific nuance and letter count required.
How can I find synonyms for 'motives' for my crossword puzzle?
To find synonyms for 'motives', consider its various facets: underlying reasons, emotional urges, or driving forces. Thinking about the specific nuance of the clue (e.g., plural vs. singular, abstract vs. concrete) can help. Online thesauruses, crossword dictionaries, and contextual examples are excellent resources.
Are there common tricks or pitfalls related to 'motives' clues?
Sometimes 'motives' might be clued indirectly, perhaps referring to a 'prime mover' or 'springs of action'. A common pitfall is overlooking the pluralization; if 'motives' is plural, the answer should typically also be plural. Always pay attention to the exact phrasing and letter count to narrow down the possibilities.