noun

motif

/moʊˈtiːf/ · say it: moh·TEF

a recurring image or idea that develops a theme

In Literary English

a recurring element or theme in a design

In Arts & Culture

In more detail

1. (noun) a distinctive pattern, design, or theme that appears repeatedly in art, music, literature, or decoration

2. (noun) a dominant idea or feature that appears many times in something

Examples

1. The floral motif was repeated throughout the wallpaper and fabric design.
2. The theme of loss is a motif that runs through all of her poems.

How to use motif

Motif refers to a distinctive element that repeats within a creative work, giving it coherence and artistic identity. It is particularly common in discussions of art, music, literature, and design. While 'theme' can be broader and more abstract (dealing with ideas or messages), motif is more specific to recurring formal or stylistic elements.

Common phrases

recurring motif
central motif
visual motif
decorative motif
motif appears throughout

Synonyms

theme · pattern · design · leitmotif · recurring element

Word family

motifs (plural)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse motif with motive (which means reason or intention). A motif is a design element; a motive is a reason for doing something.

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