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The phrase “an axe to grind” refers to having a selfish or ulterior motive. It implies someone is pursuing an agenda for their own personal gain. The phrase originated from the act of sharpening an axe, which requires effort and time spent grinding the blade. Thus, having “an axe to grind” suggests someone has a personal goal they are focused on accomplishing.
Some common synonyms for the phrase “axe to grind” include:
- Hidden agenda
- Ulterior motive
- Self-serving
- Pursuing a personal vendetta
- Having an angle
- Pushing one’s own interests
These terms all indicate that someone is not being fully transparent about their true motivations and has something to gain for themselves by taking a certain course of action or expressing a certain point of view. The synonyms convey skepticism about the person’s objectivity.
History and Origin
The idiom “having an axe to grind” dates back to a story recounted by Benjamin Franklin in his autobiography. Here is how Franklin described the origin:
When I was a little boy, I remember, one cold winter’s morning, I was accosted by a smiling man with an axe on his shoulder. “My pretty boy,” said he, “has your father a grindstone?” “Yes, sir,” said I. “You are a fine little fellow!” said he. “Will you let me grind my axe on it?” Pleased with the compliment of “fine little fellow,” “Oh yes, sir,” I answered. “It is down in the shop.” “And will you, my man,” said he, patting me on the head, “get me a little hot water?” How could I refuse? I ran and soon brought a kettleful. “How old are you, and what’s your name?” continued he, without waiting for a reply. “I am sure you are one of the finest lads that I have ever seen. Will you just turn a few minutes for me?” Tickled with the flattery, like a little fool, I went to work, and bitterly did I rue the day. It was a new axe, and I toiled and tugged till I was almost tired to death. The school bell rang, and I could not get away; my hands were blistered, and the axe was not half ground. At length, however, it was sharpened; and the man turned to me with “Now, you little rascal, you’ve played truant; scud to school, or you’ll rue it!” Alas! Thought I, it was hard enough to turn a grindstone this cold day, but now to be called a little rascal was too much. It sank deep into my mind, and often have I thought of it since.
This story illustrates how the man manipulated young Franklin by flattering him (“you are one of the finest lads I have ever seen”) in order to persuade Franklin to help him grind his axe. The man took advantage of Franklin’s youth and naivete for his own benefit. Ever since, the idiom “having an axe to grind” has referred to having a personal motive or agenda behind one’s words and actions.
When the Phrase Might Be Used
Here are some examples of when someone might say a person “has an axe to grind” or similar phrase:
- A politician who advocates strongly for an issue that would benefit one of their major campaign donors.
- A reviewer who gives an overly harsh critique of a business competitor.
- A friend who keeps steering the conversation back to complaining about their ex – they have an axe to grind.
- A coworker who always manages to bring up their accomplishments and subtly undermine colleagues – they are self-serving.
- A salesperson who pushes a product without fully considering the customer’s needs – they have an angle.
In these situations, the person’s motives are not entirely objective or beneficial to others. There is some element of self-interest or bitterness driving their words and actions. Calling out that they “have an axe to grind” calls attention to their hidden agenda.
Positive and Negative Connotations
The idiom “axe to grind” generally has negative connotations. It implies the person is being manipulative or cunning for their own gain. However, there can also be positive connotations in certain contexts.
For example, someone could have an axe to grind if they are:
- A social justice advocate campaigning earnestly for an important cause.
- A determined entrepreneur motivated to succeed and prove their critics wrong.
- A scientist dedicated to curing a disease after seeing its impacts firsthand.
In these cases, having an “axe to grind” can signify admirable grit, motivation, and commitment to a goal. The phrase does not have to denote selfishness – it can also reflect passion and conviction.
Using the Phrase in a Sentence
Here are some examples of how the idiom “axe to grind” and its synonyms can be used in sentences:
- I agree with many of the points you made in your book review, but it seems like you have an axe to grind against the author.
- Jane always complains about her sister-in-law whenever we see her. She obviously has some ulterior motives and axes to grind.
- The CEO claimed the new policy was for the good of employees, but we could tell she had a hidden agenda.
- I don’t think the prosecutor can be objective in this case – it seems like he has a personal vendetta against the defendant.
- The customer service rep was just pursuing his own self-interest, not helping me with my request.
Using these idioms fluidly can help express skepticism of someone’s motives and shine a light on their potential biases and agendas. But context matters – having an “axe to grind” isn’t always negative.
Alternative Perspectives
Some perspectives present an alternative viewpoint on the idiom “having an axe to grind”:
- Feminist: This phrase often gets used to minimize passionate women advocating for a cause as overly-emotional, aggressive, or self-serving. The idiom can imply that assertiveness or strong viewpoints are a character flaw.
- Business: Employees with “an axe to grind” may be highly motivated and productive. Their determination to prove themselves can benefit the company if harnessed correctly.
- Historical: While the idiom arose from a manipulative situation, axe grinding was also an essential household chore in earlier eras. It served a practical purpose for families.
- Cultural: The idiom derives from a specifically American folk tale and pioneering history. Other cultures likely have different idioms about ulterior motives that reflect their own histories.
Considering these perspectives adds nuance on judging those who seem to “have an axe to grind.” Their motivation may arise from justifiable outrage, ambition, or cultural background. The phrase should be used carefully.
When the Phrase Does Not Apply
The idiom “axe to grind” does not apply when someone’s motivations arise from:
- Genuine care or concern for others’ well-being
- Commitment to core values or ethics
- An enthusiastic interest in a topic or activity
- Pure intellectual curiosity
- Stewards who want to leave things better than they found them
These motivations come from a place of idealism, curiosity, or duty – not self-interest. Even if such people are deeply dedicated to a cause, they lack an ulterior “axe to grind.”
Conclusion
The idiom “axe to grind” colorfully conveys when someone is motivated by selfish or bitter reasons. Its origins trace back to a manipulative situation experienced by Benjamin Franklin as a young boy. However, having passion and conviction can also be admirable traits in certain contexts, making the phrase more nuanced. When used carefully, it can be a useful way to express healthy skepticism about the incentives driving someone’s behavior. But it should be applied judiciously, as many people are driven by altruism, curiosity, or a sense of integrity. Understanding the full connotations of “having an axe to grind” provides insight into both human motivations and the impact of language.
