Meaning of ax to grind | Babel Free

Definitions

1. A proposition or point of view to advocate, especially motivated by self-interest.
   US
2. A grudge or grievance, with implications of confrontation.
   US

Equivalents

Examples

““See⟳,” Koteks said, “if you can get⟳ them to drop their clause on patents. That, lady, is my ax to grind⟳.””

“The design⟳ has had a rather contentious journey through the various technical committees set⟳ up by the EEC to study⟳ the problem; individual member nations with particular axes to grind⟳ holding up the proceedings at regular intervals.”

“If one is not just writing history but also trying to condemn and “demolish” one’s enemy, as Neumann is, you need⟳ a deeper level of introspection, and a high standard of proof. If not, it’s better to let⟳ “silence be a fence for wisdom.” (Pirkei Avot 3:13) It’s not possible to maintain⟳ the curiosity and openness you need⟳ for real research⟳ if you have⟳ such a big ax to grind⟳.”

CEFR level