an axe to grind
Meaning
a hidden personal motive or grievance that makes someone biased or push an issue for self-interest
Origin
Often traced to an 1810 essay by Charles Miner describing a man tricking a boy into grinding his axe; it became a metaphor for having a self-serving agenda. The image also fits the literal act of sharpening a tool for one’s own use.
Notes
Often implies suspicion or criticism: someone isn’t neutral and is pushing a view for personal reasons. Commonly used as “have an axe to grind” or “no axe to grind.”
Examples
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Be careful how you read his comments—he clearly has an axe to grind with the new manager.
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The report sounded objective, but the author had an axe to grind against public schools.
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I’m not taking sides; I don’t have an axe to grind in this dispute.
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She kept bringing up old mistakes, and it was obvious she had an axe to grind.
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If you have an axe to grind, say it directly instead of disguising it as advice.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used with have/has/had: “She has an axe to grind.” Also common as “no axe to grind” (no personal stake). Article “an” is fixed; plural “axes” is rare.
Synonyms
- ulterior motive
- hidden agenda
- personal stake
- have a vested interest
Antonyms
- no axe to grind
- be impartial
- be objective