1. A reason or reasons for acting or behaving in a particular way
What was the motive behind the crime?
Qual era o motivo por trás do crime?
2. Something that prompts or incites someone to do something
Financial gain was her motive for accepting the job.
O ganho financeiro era seu motivo para aceitar o emprego.
3. A pattern, design, or form in art or music that is repeated or developed
The floral motive appears throughout the painting.
O motivo floral aparece em toda a pintura.