Basic Details
Word: Ulterior
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Describing something that is hidden or not immediately obvious, often referring to hidden motives or reasons behind actions.
Synonyms: Hidden, concealed, ulterior motive
Antonyms: Clear, obvious, straightforward
Idioms and Phrases
- Ulterior motives: Reasons for doing something that are not obvious and may be hidden. Example: "She said she wanted to help me, but I suspected she had ulterior motives for her actions."
- Look beyond the surface: To seek the deeper reasons or meanings behind something. Example: "Sometimes you need to look beyond the surface to see the ulterior reasons behind someone's behaviour."
Usage Examples
Example 1: While he appeared friendly, many wondered if he had ulterior motives for joining the club.
Example 2: The politician's speech sounded good at first, but some suspected there were ulterior motives behind his promises.
Example 3: She seemed enthusiastic about the project, but her ulterior intentions began to reveal themselves over time.
Fun Fact
The word "ulterior" comes from the Latin word "ulterior," which means "further" or "beyond." Its use in English dates back to the late 16th century, often associated with secretive or hidden intentions.
Famous Quote
"We must look for the ulterior motives behind peoples actions. - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does the word "ulterior" mean?
a) Easy to understand
b) Hidden or not obvious
c) Known to all
d) Publicly stated
Answer: b) Hidden or not obvious
2. Which of these is a synonym of "ulterior"?
a) Clear
b) Concealed
c) Obvious
d) Direct
Answer: b) Concealed
3. Which word is an antonym of "ulterior"?
a) Secret
b) Obvious
c) Hidden
d) Concealed
Answer: b) Obvious
4. Which sentence uses "ulterior" correctly?
a) His ulterior motives were clear to everyone in the room.
b) She had ulterior reasons for attending the meeting.
c) The ulterior was easy to explain.
d) All answers are correct.
Answer: b) She had ulterior reasons for attending the meeting.
5. Which phrase means having hidden motives?
a) Ulterior motives
b) Surface level
c) Clear intentions
d) Open discussion
Answer: a) Ulterior motives
