There are seven different Hebrew words translated 'ax' or 'axe,' with various shades of meaning. De 19:5; Jg 9:48; 2Sa 12:31; 1Ch 20:3; Ps 74:6; Jer 10:3; Eze 26:9; Mt 3:10; Lu 3:9.
And already the axe is lying at the roots of the trees. Any tree, therefore, that does not bear good fruit is cut down and cast into the fire.
And now truly the axe is already laid at the root of the trees. So every tree which is not bearing good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire."