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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.

Difficulty: Easy

A private end to serve
To fail to arouse interest
To have no result
To work for both sides
None of these

Correct Answer: A private end to serve

Explanation:

Meaning
Having "an axe to grind" means acting from a self-interested motive rather than from impartiality.

Option analysis
A 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 Answer
A private end to serve.

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