by-end
Definition
- Noun:
- A secret or ulterior purpose: "by-end" refers to a concealed aim or objective, often one that is self-serving or not openly declared.
- A secondary or indirect goal: It can also mean a purpose that is not the main or obvious one, but rather an additional or hidden intention.
Usage Examples
- (He had a secret, self-serving purpose.)
- (A hidden goal of personal advantage.)
- (An indirect or secondary aim.)
Advanced Usage
"to act with a by-end": to perform an action while harboring a concealed motive.
- He offered to drive her home, but he was acting with a by-end of asking for a favor. (He had an unstated, personal reason.)
"by-end of ambition": a secret goal related to personal advancement.
- Her constant volunteering had a by-end of ambition: she wanted a promotion. (A hidden aim for career gain.)
Variants and Related Words
- By-end is a compound word formed from "by" (meaning secondary or incidental) and "end" (meaning purpose or goal). It is rarely used in modern English, but remains in literary or formal contexts.
Synonyms
- Ulterior motive: a hidden reason for doing something.
- Hidden agenda: a secret plan or objective.
- Subterfuge: a deceitful strategy to achieve a goal.
Related Idioms
- Have an axe to grind: to have a personal, often selfish, reason for one’s actions.
- He offered to help, but I think he has an axe to grind. (He has a hidden, self-serving purpose.)
- Play a double game: to act with two conflicting or secret intentions.
- She played a double game, appearing loyal while pursuing her own by-end. (She had a concealed motive.)