das Motiv, -e
motive · motif
Etwas, das eine Person dazu bringt, etwas zu tun oder zu schaffen; kann auch ein wiederkehrendes Thema in Kunst oder Literatur sein.
The German word "Motiv" is a noun that means "motive" or "theme." It refers to the reason behind a person's actions, a recurring theme in art, literature, or music, or an underlying element that drives a particular narrative or concept.
The word "Motiv" is derived from Latin "motivus," which relates to movement or motion, indicating that it can be about what motivates or inspires action.
Similar words in German include:
- "Beweggrund" (motive, reason for action)
- "Thema" (theme)
- "Antrieb" (drive, impulse)
Differences:
- Beweggrund specifically emphasizes the reason behind actions.
- Thema focuses more on overarching topics or subjects, especially in artistic contexts.
- Antrieb refers more to driving forces or impulses rather than specific motives or themes.
Overall, "Motiv" is broader as it can apply to both emotional and thematic contexts, while the other words have more specific connotations.
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Examples
Was ist dein Motiv dafür?noun
What is your motive for it?
Ein Motiv im Kunstwerk fasziniert mich.noun
A motif in the artwork fascinates me.
Viele Künstler wählen das Motiv sorgfältig aus.noun
Many artists choose the motif carefully.
Die Malerin arbeitete wochenlang an ihrem neuen Motiv.noun
The painter worked for weeks on her new motif.
Obwohl der Polizist viele Fragen stellte, blieb das eigentliche Motiv des Täters völlig unklar.noun
Although the police officer asked many questions, the perpetrator's actual motive remained completely unclear.
Immer wieder finden sich in seinen Kurzgeschichten die gleichen melancholischen Motive.noun
The same melancholic motifs are found again and again in his short stories.
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