Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'true motive' often involves specific nouns and set phrases rather than a single direct translation. The most common and natural way is to use 本音 (honne), which refers to one's real feelings or intentions as opposed to what is said publicly. Other expressions like 真意 (shin'i) and 本当の目的 (hontō no mokuteki) are used in more formal or explanatory contexts.
To refer to what someone truly thinks or wants, often contrasted with what they say or show outwardly.
The most common and natural word for 'true motive' or 'real intention,' especially when contrasted with 建前 (tatemae, public stance). Used in everyday conversation.
彼の本音が聞きたい。
I want to hear his true feelings.
本音を言うと、その計画には反対だ。
To be honest, I'm against that plan.
Literally 'true feelings.' A straightforward and natural way to talk about someone's real emotions or intentions.
彼女の本当の気持ちがわからない。
I don't understand her true feelings.
Refers to one's true intention or real meaning behind words or actions. Slightly more formal than 本音.
彼の真意を確かめる必要がある。
We need to ascertain his true intentions.
To explain the underlying goal or cause that is not immediately obvious.
Literally 'true purpose.' A clear and direct way to state the real objective.
彼の本当の目的は何ですか？
What is his true motive?
A more formal or literary version of 'true purpose,' often used in writing or serious discussion.
その組織の真の目的は不明だ。
The organization's true purpose is unknown.
Means 'motive' in a neutral sense, often used in crime or psychology contexts. Can be combined with 真の (shin no) for 'true motive.'
To imply that someone has a secret, often selfish reason for doing something.
Specifically means 'ulterior motive' or 'secret intention,' often with a negative connotation of selfishness or deceit.
彼の親切には下心があると思う。
I think there's an ulterior motive behind his kindness.
Literally 'back purpose,' meaning a hidden agenda. Less common but easily understood.
彼には裏の目的があるに違いない。
He must have a hidden agenda.
本音 (honne) is used in everyday contexts to contrast with 建前 (tatemae), the public facade. It's about personal, often emotional truth. 真意 (shin'i) is more about the logical or factual intention behind a statement or action, and is slightly more formal.
The direct translation '真の動機' (shin no dōki) is grammatically possible but sounds unnatural and overly literal. Use 本音, 真意, or 本当の目的 instead depending on context.
The motive for the crime is still unknown.