Question:
The idiom axe to grind means:
The idiom axe to grind means:
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Idioms in English examinations almost never mean what they literally say.
If you see an option that describes the physical, literal action of the words in the idiom, such as "sharpening a weapon", you can safely eliminate it.
Look for figurative meanings that involve human behavior, motives, or relationships.
If you see an option that describes the physical, literal action of the words in the idiom, such as "sharpening a weapon", you can safely eliminate it.
Look for figurative meanings that involve human behavior, motives, or relationships.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
- To sharpen a weapon
- To have a selfish motive
- To work very hard
- To end a friendship
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Verified By Collegedunia
The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question requires us to determine the idiomatic meaning of the common English phrase "an axe to grind".
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Idiomatic Definition: The phrase "to have an axe to grind" means to have a strong personal opinion or a selfish, hidden motive for doing something.
- Origin of the Idiom: The idiom is historical, commonly associated with an essay written by Charles Miner in 1810 or sometimes attributed to Benjamin Franklin.
- The Origin Story: In the story, a man flatters a young boy into turning a heavy grindstone so that the man can sharpen his axe. Once the axe is sharp, the man walks away without thanking the boy. This represents using others for one's own private motives.
- Analysis of Option (A) - To sharpen a weapon: This is the literal meaning of grinding an axe, which is incorrect because idioms carry a figurative meaning rather than a literal one.
- Analysis of Option (B) - To have a selfish motive: This matches the figurative meaning of having a private interest or hidden agenda to serve. Therefore, it is correct.
- Analysis of Option (C) - To work very hard: While turning a grindstone is hard work, this is not the figurative meaning of the idiom.
- Analysis of Option (D) - To end a friendship: This is unrelated to the concept of private motives or axes, making it incorrect.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The idiomatic meaning of "axe to grind" is "To have a selfish motive", corresponding to option (B).
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