ulterior

/ʌlˈtɪəɹɪə/

Group 31Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Existing beyond what is obvious or evident; intentionally hidden
GRE

Example in Context

Skeptics questioned whether the offer was genuinely charitable or driven by ulterior motives related to the upcoming regulatory review.

Synonyms

hiddensecretcovert

Etymology

Refers to something that exists beyond the obvious, often with hidden motives.

  • ulter (Latin) — beyond

Memory Aid

🕵️‍♂️Sounds like “all tear ya

When the detective found secrets, he said, 'I knew there was an ULTERIOR motive — it’s ALL TEAR YA apart!'

Visual Association

🕵️A shadowy figure in a trench coat revealing hidden papers in a dark alley, hinting at deceit.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “ulterior” mean on the GRE?

ulterior (adjective) means “Existing beyond what is obvious or evident; intentionally hidden”. Skeptics questioned whether the offer was genuinely charitable or driven by ulterior motives related to the upcoming regulatory review.

How to remember “ulterior” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “ulterior” sounds like “all tear ya”. When the detective found secrets, he said, 'I knew there was an ULTERIOR motive — it’s ALL TEAR YA apart!'

What are synonyms for “ulterior”?

Common synonyms: hidden, secret, covert.