Japanese word

他意

Pronunciation

Romajitai

Meaning

  • nounulterior motive

Example

私の質問に他意はありません。watashi no shitsu mon ni ta i wa a ri ma se n

There is no ulterior motive in my question.

Illustration for 他意 (ulterior motive)

More examples

その発言には他意があるように聞こえました。so no hatsu gen ni wa ta i ga a ru yō ni ki ko e ma shi ta

That remark sounded like it had an ulterior motive.

Core concept

Describes an unspoken intention that exists alongside the apparent purpose of a statement or action.

Common phrases

  • 何の他意もないnan no ta i mo na i

    have no ulterior motive whatsoever

  • 他意があるta i ga a ru

    have an ulterior motive

Similar words

下心shitagokoro: A hidden motive, often connected with personal gain or an improper aim.
真意shini: The actual intention or meaning behind words or actions.
意図ito: The purpose that a person has in mind when saying or doing something.

Definition in Japanese

表向きの目的とは別に隠されている意図。omote mu ki no moku teki to wa betsu ni kaku sa re te i ru i to

Word origin

The compound 他 (ta, "other") and 意 (i, "intention") literally express an intention beyond the one openly shown.

Usage tips

  • 他意 (tai) often appears in careful written language when a speaker distinguishes an additional intention from the stated purpose.

Other meanings

  • other intentionnoun
  • ill willnoun

Word lists with this word