mindmap root((激励)) motive implies an emotion or desire operating on the will and causing it to act: a crime without apparent ~. impulse suggests a driving power arising from personal temperament or constitution: my first ~ was to hit him. incentive applies to an external influence, such as an expected reward or a hope, that incites to action: a bonus was offered as an ~ for meeting the deadline. inducement suggests a motive prompted by the deliberate enticements or allurements of another: offered a watch as an ~ to subscribe. spur applies to a motive that stimulates the faculties or increases energy or ardor: fear was the ~ that kept me going. goad suggests a motive that keeps one going against one's will or desire: the need to earn a living is the daily ~.