N3
どうき (dōki)
動機
motive, incentive
💡 Nuance & Usage:
Often refers to the psychological reason or cause behind an action, whether good or bad. It's the 'why' behind an action, distinct from 目的 (mokuteki - purpose/goal).
📝 Example Sentences
彼の犯行の動機は何だったのか、警察は調べている。
The police are investigating what the motive behind his crime was.
Practice Quiz
Test your understanding of "動機"!
彼女が一生懸命勉強する_______は、良い大学に入ることです。
🎉 正解 / Correct!
日本語: 彼女が勉強する「理由」や「きっかけ」なので、「動機」が適切です。
English: Since it's the 'reason' or 'trigger' for her studying, 'dōki' (motive) is appropriate.
English: Since it's the 'reason' or 'trigger' for her studying, 'dōki' (motive) is appropriate.
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