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Tatmotiv

motive (for a crime)

noun TAHT-mo-teef Rare
People & Society Crime

Usage Note

Tatmotiv is the reason or motive behind a criminal act. Establishing Tatmotiv is important in investigations. Ein Tatmotiv ermitteln — to determine a motive. Common in crime journalism and court coverage.

Examples

"Das Tatmotiv des Angreifers blieb zunächst unklar."

Natural Translation

The attacker's motive initially remained unclear.

Literal Translation

The crime-motive of-the attacker remained initially unclear.

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