arrière-pensée
Definition
Noun: - An ulterior motive or hidden intention: "arrière-pensée" refers to a thought or idea that is concealed behind what is openly expressed or done, often implying a secret or secondary purpose.
Usage Examples
- (A hidden or ulterior motive behind the praise.)
- (A secret intention that was not openly stated.)
Advanced Usage
- "with an arrière-pensée": acting with a hidden motive or reservation.
- He agreed to the plan with an arrière-pensée, planning to change it later. (He outwardly agreed but had a concealed plan to alter the arrangement.)
- "without arrière-pensée": acting openly and without hidden motives.
- She spoke without arrière-pensée, meaning every word she said. (She was completely sincere and transparent.)
Variants and Related Words
- Arrière-pensée (n): This word is a direct borrowing from French and does not have common English variants. It is often used in literary or formal contexts.
Synonyms
- Ulterior motive: a hidden reason for doing something.
- Hidden agenda: a secret plan or aim.
- Reservation: a doubt or qualification that is not openly expressed.
Related Idioms
- Have an axe to grind: to have a hidden personal motive for acting.
- He seemed overly helpful, but I think he has an axe to grind. (He has a secret reason for being so helpful, possibly self-serving.)
- Read between the lines: to understand the hidden meaning behind what is said or written.
- Her letter seemed cheerful, but reading between the lines, I sensed an arrière-pensée. (Understanding the concealed intention or worry behind the words.)