State the meaning of the idiom/phrase given below: to have an axe to grind
2023
State the meaning of the idiom/phrase given below:
to have an axe to grind
- A.
A private end to serve
- B.
To fail to arouse interest
- C.
To have no result
- D.
To work for both sides
Attempted by 52 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Answer: A private end to serve
Explanation: To have an axe to grind means to have a personal motive, grievance, or private interest that influences what you say or do. It often implies bias or an ulterior reason for taking a position.
Synonyms: an ulterior motive, a personal grievance, a selfish reason.
Example: She criticized the proposal because she had an axe to grind — her company stood to lose money if it passed.
This clarifies why the correct choice is the option that states a private end to serve.