The two words ‘Ax or Axe’ can be confusing to write as they are homophones (words that sound alike) and have close meanings.

As you can see the difference in the spellings of these words is that one is written with ‘e’ and the other without ‘e’. And the fact is that one is used in American English while the other is used in British English.

So, in this article, I will explain to you the similarity and differences between these two words Ax Or Axe and help you understand their usage in the sentences.

Ax Or Axe | Ax Vs Axe

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·        Meaning of Ax

The word ‘Ax’ can be used as a noun and verb both. It is used in American English. Ax means a tool for chopping wood into portions. Informally, it could also mean division of a unit or release from employment.

Ax is typically made of iron with a steel edge and a wooden handle which is used for cutting something.

Examples

• He cut the wood into three parts with an ax.
• Use an ax to cut the pipe as the fire cannot burn it.
• The only reason that can ax my relationship with Clay is disloyalty.

·        Meaning of Axe

Axe has the same meaning as ‘Ax’, the only difference between these two words is that ‘Axe’ is used in British English and it also means a tool for cutting wood into pieces.

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Examples

• Please bring the axe from the storeroom.
• The woodcutter cuts the tree from his axe and sells it to the market.
• I took my old axe to the blacksmith to sharpen it.

Idioms associated with the word ‘Axe’

·        An Axe hanging over something

In office terms, if an axe is hanging over an employee’s head, then he is under the possibility of being fired or sacked.

Example – Seeing the downfall in the stock price, Justin has an axe hanging over his head.

·        Get the Axe

In an office, if you get the axe means you will lose the job.

Example- Your presentation will decide if you will get the axe or not.

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·        Have an axe to grind

Having an axe to grind means having a strong motive to do something. But it could also mean a complaint you want to resolve with someone.

Examples – 1. The coach is making us work hard because he has an axe to grind.

2. I have an axe to grind with Hannah, about the money she gave to my brother.

I hope this article was helpful and you have got the difference between Ax Or Axe words.