Have an axe to grind

usgb
verb

To have a personal or selfish motive for doing or being involved in something.

He was always complaining about the new office policy and it felt like he had an axe to grind with management.
Visual representation of "have an axe to grind" - To have a personal or selfish motive for doing or being involved in something

Often appears as...

  • have a personal axe to grind
  • have a political axe to grind

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "have an axe to grind"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Subjectivity Alert

This phrase often implies biased opinions due to personal issues or interests.

Illustration for Subjectivity Alert
His criticism of the project seems like he has an axe to grind, considering he was passed over for its leadership.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Intensity

The phrase evokes feelings of resentment, indicating deep-seated emotions.

Illustration for Emotional Intensity
She has an axe to grind with the committee after they dismissed her proposal.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Hidden Motives

Use this phrase to hint at someone's hidden agenda or ulterior motives.

Illustration for Hidden Motives
It sounds like he has an axe to grind since he benefits from the policy change.
Visual representation of the word "Have an axe to grind"

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