Answer: motive

AnswerCrossword Clue
MOTIVEReason.
motivepurpose; incentive
motiveto inspire to action, also MOTIVATE
MOTIVEDetective's determination
MOTIVEThe reason why
MOTIVEColumbo's concern
MOTIVECause for a crime
MOTIVEPurpose
MOTIVEIssue in a murder trial
MOTIVEEnvy, anger or greed, maybe
MOTIVEMystery element
MOTIVEWhodunit necessity
MOTIVEMurder mystery necessity
MOTIVESleuth's object
MOTIVEStimulus or goal
MOTIVEInducement
MOTIVEReason for action
MOTIVEInducement.
MOTIVEWhodunit ingredient.
MOTIVEStimulus.
MOTIVEIncentive
MOTIVEAccompanier of means and opportunity
MOTIVEReason for a crime
MOTIVEReason
MOTIVEIntention
MOTIVEWhodunit plot element
MOTIVEAspect of a crime investigation
MOTIVEWhodunit discovery
MOTIVETrial attorney's concern
MOTIVEWhodunit component
MOTIVEMystery-plot element
MOTIVEDriving force