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.
Already the axe is lying at the root of the trees. Therefore every tree that fails to bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
Already, indeed, the axe is lying at the root of the trees. Therefore every tree that fails to bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire."