MOTIVE
Ariana Grande feat. Doja Cat Lyrics

Ma-ma-ma-murder (murder)
Introducing the song with playful emphasis, possibly suggesting that the following lyrics will pack a punch

Tell me why I get this feeling That you really wanna turn me on
Expressing the intuition that the person being addressed is attracted to the singer and wants to arouse her

Tell me why I get this feeling That you really wanna make me yours, ah, ah
Further exploring the sense that the person wants to have a romantic connection with the singer

'Cause I see you trying Subliminally trying To see if I'm gon' be the one that's in your arms
Pointing out that the person is making subtle or indirect attempts to gauge the singer's interest in a physical relationship

I admit it's exciting Parts of me kinda like it But before I lead you on
Admitting that the attention from the person is thrilling and appealing, but that the singer doesn't want to mislead them

Baby, tell me what's your motive? What's your motive? What's your motive? Ah, ah So tell me what's your motive? What's your motive? What's your motive? Ah, ah
Directly asking the person to clarify their intentions and desires, using a repetitive refrain for emphasis

I could call bullsh- out from a mile away (don't say) You want me if you can keep coming back for me Might have to curve you if you just can't talk straight (just say) Say what you mean 'cause you might get it
Asserting that the person should be honest and straightforward about their attraction, and warning that they will be rejected if they play games or try to manipulate the singer

You treat me like gold, baby Now you wanna spoil me Did you wanna trophy Or you wanna sport me, baby? Want me on your neck 'Cause you wanted respect 'Cause you fightin some war, baby Well, I had to bring the fists out Had to put a wall up But don't trust phonies baby, yeah, yeah You gotta tell me what's your motive, baby
Describing how the person has been treating the singer well, but questioning whether this is because they genuinely care or just want to use the singer as an accessory or trophy, and expressing a need for honesty about the person's motivations

'Cause you got your candy on your arm No need to sugarcoat a lie Say what you want I needed a real bonafide G Can you promise me you'll bring it all tonight? (Bring it all to me) 'Cause I need you to be wise Tell me everything that's on your mind c'mon
Suggesting that the person is trying to impress others by appearing with the singer, but insisting that they should be honest and upfront about their intentions and desires, and challenging them to prove their devotion and dedication

Baby, tell me what's your motive? What's your motive? (What's your motive?) What's your motive? (What's your motive?) Ah, ah So tell me what's your motive? (Tell me, baby) What's your motive? (Tell me, baby, what's your motive?) Whats your motive? (Yeah, ey) Ah, Ah
Repeating the refrain and making it clear that the question of the person's motives is the central theme of the song