1.
ulterior motive; hidden agenda; secret intention
A concealed intention or selfish motive behind seemingly innocent or kind behavior, especially romantic or sexual interest.
下心があるのが見え見えだ。
It's obvious that he has an ulterior motive.
親切にしてくれるけど、下心がありそうだ。
He's being nice, but it seems like he has a hidden motive.
下心なしに純粋に助けたいと思っているだけだ。
I genuinely want to help, with no ulterior motives.
Strongly implies a selfish or dishonest motive hidden beneath a surface of friendliness or generosity. In modern usage, often suggests romantic or sexual interest that someone is trying to conceal. Composed of 下 (underneath/below) + 心 (heart/mind) — literally, the heart that lies beneath the surface.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 下心がある: to have an ulterior motive
- 下心丸出し: with one's motives completely exposed
- 下心が見え見え: with obviously transparent motives
- 下心なしに: without ulterior motives
- 下心を隠す: to hide one's ulterior motives
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 魂胆: scheme; plot — similar meaning but implies a more calculated, strategic plan rather than a hidden personal desire
- 思惑: ulterior motive; hidden calculation — more neutral; can describe strategic thinking in business without the negative nuance
- 本音: true feelings; real intention — what someone truly thinks, as opposed to what they say publicly