Daily English Pod

Ulterior Motive

Jale Qaraqan

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Ulterior Motive

 is a hidden reason for doing something — a reason that someone is not openly explaining.

Examples:

1- In social situations, trust often depends on believing that people are acting sincerely. When people begin to feel that someone has an ulterior motive, it can create doubt.

2- A colleague suddenly became extremely friendly and helpful. At first, it seemed kind and generous. But after a while, people started wondering if there was an ulterior motive behind that behavior.

Hi everyone, and welcome to Daily English.
Today’s expression is thoughtful and very useful in everyday conversations.
It’s “ulterior motive.” One more time: “ulterior motive.”

A colleague suddenly became extremely friendly and helpful. At first, it seemed kind and generous. But after a while, people started wondering if there was an ulterior motive behind that behavior.

So what does “ulterior motive” mean? An “ulterior motive” is a hidden reason for doing something — a reason that someone is not openly explaining.

In other words, the real intention is different from what it appears to be. Let’s listen to some examples.

Sometimes people offer help because they genuinely want to support others. But occasionally, someone might help because they expect something in return. In that case, others might suspect an ulterior motive.

In social situations, trust often depends on believing that people are acting sincerely.
 When people begin to feel that someone has an ulterior motive, it can create doubt.

Even in everyday life, we sometimes ask ourselves: Is this kindness genuine, or is there an ulterior motive behind it?

Of course, not every good action hides a secret intention. But the expression reminds us that people’s motivations can sometimes be more complex than they appear.

 Now it’s your turn: Have you ever felt that someone’s actions might have an ulterior motive?

Thanks for listening to Daily English. Stay curious, stay thoughtful, and see you tomorrow.