profit motive

American  

noun

1. the desire for profit that motivates one to engage in business ventures.

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profit motive Cultural  

1. The ability to earn profits as the reason for producers to make and sell goods.

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The profit motive is often called a great good or a great evil in society. On the one hand, it is said to represent selfishness; on the other, it is said to drive the free market system. (See invisible hand.)

Etymology

Origin of profit motive

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

The new business would have to be legitimate, with a profit motive, “and not just a way to move money into an IRA for your child,” said Permashwar.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

Sir Martyn says this "strong profit motive... bends the system out of shape".

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2025

A refugee from Hitler’s Europe, Isaac has presided over his family-owned New York publishing house with little regard for the profit motive.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 16, 2024

It began as a nonprofit research lab because its founders didn’t think artificial intelligence should be pioneered by commercial firms, which are driven overwhelmingly by the profit motive.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 24, 2023

Very likely we much exaggerate the importance of the profit motive.

From Supply and Demand by Henderson, Hubert D.