Idiom/phrase meaning: "to have an axe to grind" (choose the correct sense) Context: Hidden, selfish motive behind words or actions. Select the option that best captures the meaning.
Verbal Ability
Idioms and Phrases
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
-
AA private end to serve
-
BTo fail to arouse interest
-
CTo have no result
-
DTo work for both sides
-
ENone of these
Answer
Correct Answer: A private end to serve
Explanation
MeaningHaving "an axe to grind" means acting from a self-interested motive rather than from impartiality.
Option analysisA private end to serve — captures the selfish motive. ✅(b), (c), (d) — unrelated or different concepts.
Common pitfalls
- Confusing with "to grind to a halt" (stop completely) — unrelated.
Final AnswerA private end to serve.