Understanding what motivates someone is an important aspect of building relationships. Here are some synonyms for the phrase "knowing what makes someone tick": understanding their psyche, comprehending their inner workings, grasping their personality, deciphering their behavioral patterns, unraveling their thought processes, feeling their emotional pulse, sensing their inclinations, picking up their vibe, diving into their mindset, and penetrating their identity. By tapping into these different angles, we can gain a deeper understanding of what drives people's behaviors and attitudes, which can ultimately enable us to build stronger bonds with them. So next time you want to connect with someone, try to uncover what makes them tick!