What is the best explanation of idiomatic expression an axe to grind?

The idiomatic expression "to have an axe to grind" means to have a personal reason or motive, often a grievance, for being involved in something.

Here's a breakdown:

* "Axe" symbolizes a tool used to chop wood, implying a forceful and perhaps aggressive action.

* "Grind" refers to the act of sharpening the axe, a repetitive and laborious process.

* "To have an axe to grind" suggests that someone is motivated by a personal issue that they are actively working on, like sharpening an axe to prepare for a specific task.

Examples:

* "The journalist is known for having an axe to grind against the government."

* "I don't want to get involved in this debate, I don't have any axe to grind."

* "She had an axe to grind with her ex-boyfriend, so she spread rumors about him."

In essence, "to have an axe to grind" implies a hidden agenda or a personal stake in the outcome of a situation.