have an axe to grind
Meaning: to have a personal grievance; hidden motives behind actions.
Language: English
Literally: to have an axe to grind
Category: Daily Life
Origin: American; possibly from Benjamin Franklin anecdote about man sharpening axes while distracted.
More idioms — Daily Life
- run rings around someone — to easily surpass someone; to be far superior in ability.
- get the ball rolling — to start something; to initiate a process.
- as tough as old boots — very strong; enduring; difficult to break.
- head honcho — the person in charge; the leader.
- get the short end of the stick — to receive unfair treatment; to get the worse deal.
- no love lost — mutual dislike; bad relations between people.
More English idioms
- come hell or high water — no matter what obstacles arise; with absolute determination.
- bury the hatchet — to make peace; to settle a dispute.
- a storm in a teacup — excessive fuss over something trivial; tempest in a teapot.
- up the creek without a paddle — in a difficult situation without means to escape.
- paint the town red — to celebrate wildly; to party extensively.
- fit as a fiddle — in excellent physical condition; healthy.
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