Motivos

Motivos is the plural form of motivo in Spanish and is used to denote motives, reasons, or causes. In English, the closest equivalents are motive (singular) or motif when referring to a recurring idea or theme. The term appears across disciplines, from ordinary speech to literature, music, and psychology, and its precise meaning depends on context.

Etymology and senses: The word derives from Latin motivus, meaning moving or causing. In everyday Spanish, motivos are the explanations or justifications for actions or decisions. In literature and film, a related concept is the motif, a recurring element—such as a symbol, idea, or image—that gives unity to a work. In Spanish-language criticism, motivos can describe both narrative themes and functional reasons within the plot.

Usage in arts and psychology: In music, motivo (or motivo in Spanish) refers to a short musical idea that recurs and helps define a composition; when closely linked to a larger structure, it is often called a motif or leitmotiv. In psychology and social sciences, motives are internal states that energize and direct behavior, including distinctions between intrinsic and extrinsic motives and between needs, goals, and incentives.

Examples: A film might reveal the protagonist’s motives for seeking a new job, while a novel uses a repeated motif—such as a red scarf—to express a theme. In everyday language, statements like “sus motivos eran legítimos” translate to “his reasons were legitimate.” Motivos thus function as explanations, thematic devices, or driving forces across different domains.