Practicing Success
Find the meaning of the following idiom : To have an axe to grind |
to have a selfish reason for doing something to hide a secret to have full control of a situation able to arouse interest |
to have a selfish reason for doing something |
The correct meaning of the idiom "to have an axe to grind" is to have a selfish reason for doing something. The idiom is thought to have originated in the 16th century, when people would grind their axes at a mill. The phrase is often used to describe someone who is motivated by their own personal interests, rather than by a genuine desire to help others. The other options for the meaning of the idiom are incorrect. To hide a secret means to keep something confidential. To have full control of a situation means to be in charge of everything that is happening. Able to arouse interest means to be interesting or engaging. |