motive
Ariana Grande & Doja Cat Lyrics

Tell me why I get this feeling
Asking for an explanation as to why she has a feeling about the person

That you really wanna turn me on
Believing that the person desires to make her attracted to them

That you really wanna make me yours
Thinking that the person wants to have a relationship with her

'Cause I see you trying
Noticing the person's attempts

Subliminally trying
Trying to achieve something without being too apparent

To see if I'm gon' be the one that's in your arms
Wanting to determine if she is the person the other wants to hold

I admit it's exciting
Acknowledging it as an exciting experience

Parts of me kinda like it
Suggesting that she is interested in the experience

But before I lead you on
Acknowledging that she doesn't want to give the wrong impression

Baby, tell me what's your motive?
Asking the person about their true intentions

I could call bullshit out from a mile away (don't say)
Knowing the other person's tricks too well

You'll want me if you can
Believes that the other person wants her

Keep coming back for me
Refuses to give up on pursuing her

Might have to curve you
May have to reject the other person

If you just can't talk straight (just say)
Asking for straightforward communication from the other person

Say what you mean, 'cause you might get it
Encouraging the other person to be honest about their intentions

You treat me like gold baby
Expressing appreciation for how the other person treats her

Now you wanna spoil me
Believes that the other person wants to give her even more now

Did you want a trophy?
Asking the other person if they want something material in return

Or you wanna sport me, baby?
Asking if the person wants to use her for some gain

Want me on your neck 'cause you wanted respect
Questioning if the other person seeks her company just for show

'Cause you're fighting some war, baby
Asking if the other person feels the need to prove something to others

Well I had to bring the fists out
Had to put up a fight for herself

Had to put a wall up
Trying to defend herself

But don't trust phonies, baby
Advising the other person not to be fake

You gotta tell me what's your motive, baby
Asking the other person to be open about their intentions

'Cause you got your candy on your arm
Indicating that the other person already has someone else

No need to sugarcoat a lie
Suggesting that the other person be honest instead of lying

Say what you want
Encouraging the other person to express their true desires

I needed a real bonafide G
Asking for a real, genuine person

Can you promise me
Asking the other person to make a commitment

You'll bring it all tonight
Asking the other to give their all

'Cause I need you to be wise
Expecting the other person to be wise

Tell me everything that's on your mind
Asking the other person to share their thoughts openly