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ulterior

Ulterior (adjective) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

adjective

IPA:

ulterior/ʌlˈtɪərɪə/

What does ulterior mean?

Hidden or kept secret, particularly with the intention of deceiving or manipulating others.
"The ulterior motive behind the gift was to gain favor with the boss."

Detailed Meaning of Ulterior

It is often used to describe motives, goals or intentions that are not immediately obvious or stated outright. When someone has an ulterior motive, it means that they have an additional or hidden reason for doing something. Ulterior can also be used to describe the secondary or underlying nature of something, such as an ulterior meaning in a conversation or an ulterior purpose of an action. In general, the term implies that something is not as it appears on the surface and that there may be hidden or deceitful intentions at play. Ulterior can also refer to something that is not immediately visible or apparent, but is more remote or farther away.

Example Sentences for Ulterior

1. He had an ulterior motive for helping us with the project.
2. The politician's ulterior ambitions were hidden behind his charming façade.
3. She suspected that his generosity came with an ulterior price.
4. Despite the friendly meeting, there seemed to be an ulterior agenda.
5. The sudden gift left her wondering about his ulterior intentions.
6. His proposal appeared fair, but I suspected an ulterior scheme.

Origin and Etymology of Ulterior

The adjective 'ulterior' has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'ulterius,' which means 'further' or 'beyond.' Etymologically, 'ulterior' conveys the idea of something that is beyond or hidden from immediate view. In its modern usage, it describes motives, intentions, or purposes that are kept hidden or secret, often with the intention of deceiving or manipulating others. The word's etymology underscores the notion of something lying beyond what is readily apparent, emphasizing the element of secrecy or concealed motives that 'ulterior' actions or intentions imply.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective ulterior:

hidden

explicit

open

overt

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Ulterior

1. Despite her denial, I couldn't shake the feeling of an ulterior plan.
2. His eagerness to please raised suspicions of ulterior motives.
3. She took the job not for the salary, but for an ulterior purpose.
4. He refused to believe her innocence, hinting at ulterior motives.
5. The event, while seemingly casual, had an ulterior aim of networking.
6. I had no ulterior agenda; my intentions were pure and simple.
7. Her agreement with the decision had an ulterior undertone of resentment.
8. We must be wary of offers that hide ulterior objectives.
9. They acted out of kindness, with no ulterior motives.
10. His ulterior plans became clear when he asked for a loan.
11. She couldn’t shake off the feeling that he had ulterior reasons for being there.
12. The ulterior significance of the symbol was revealed in the book.
13. The offer was tempting, but I feared an ulterior trap.
14. She had an ulterior purpose for inviting him to the party.
15. The ulterior motive of the meeting was to discuss the merger.
16. The ulterior purpose of the research was to develop new military technology.
17. He had an ulterior motive for inviting her to the party.
18. The ulterior goal of the campaign was to gain political power.