noun
A factor that motivates or leads someone to take a particular action. Often used in formal or explanatory contexts.
経済成長の導因として技術革新が挙げられる。
Technological innovation can be cited as an incentive for economic growth.
彼の行動の導因は何だったのか。
What was the inducement for his actions?
Compound of 導 (guide, lead) and 因 (cause, factor). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the word is constructed from kanji with relevant meanings.