ulteriormotive
nounUK /ʌlˈtɪəriə ˈməʊtɪv/
US /ʌlˈtɪriər ˈmoʊtɪv/
A secret reason for doing something that you keep hidden.
She was extra nice to the teacher, but her ulterior motive was to get a better grade.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A reason someone hides because it benefits them, not others.
He offered to help with the project, but his ulterior motive was to take all the credit.
3. A hidden plan behind a kind action.
The stranger's gift seemed nice, but it had an ulterior motive.
4. A secret goal that is not the one you say out loud.
The company's sale had an ulterior motive: to attract new customers.