Cool MateMotive vs Reason
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Motive | Reason | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | The reason someone does something. | An explanation or cause for something. |
| CEFR level | C1 | A1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Used in both formal and informal settings. Common in discussions about reasons behind actions, but avoid in casual conversations unless discussing motivations seriously. | Used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal writing, it often appears in discussions and academic papers. In conversational settings, it's common to ask for someone's reason behind their choices. |
Frequently asked questions: Motive vs Reason
What's the difference between "Motive" and "Reason"?
"Motive" means: The reason someone does something. "Reason" means: An explanation or cause for something.
When should I use "Motive" and "Reason"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Motive" and "Reason" the same CEFR level?
"Motive" is at C1, "Reason" is at A1 on the CEFR scale.