ulterior
UK: ʌlˈtɪəriə | US: ʌlˈtɪriər
adj. situated beyond or on the farther side
adj. beyond what is expressed or evident; intentionally concealed
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Derived from Latin ulter (meaning "farther" or "beyond"), combined with the comparative suffix -ior, which indicates a higher degree (e.g., superior, inferior). The word originally referred to physical distance ("farther side") but evolved metaphorically to describe hidden motives or unstated intentions ("beyond what is seen"). This shift reflects the human tendency to associate physical remoteness with secrecy or ambiguity.
The agreement had an ulterior purpose that wasn’t disclosed initially.
She suspected his kindness was driven by ulterior motives.
The ulterior regions of the cave remained unexplored.
His ulterior goal was to gain control of the company.
Diplomacy often involves ulterior negotiations behind public statements.