What does “Arm and a leg” mean?
"Arm and a leg" means that something is being sold or offered at a very high price or cost.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I had to pay an arm and a leg for that designer handbag.
Example
The repairs on my car cost me an arm and a leg.
Example
I can't believe they're charging an arm and a leg for concert tickets
Is “Arm and a leg” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Arm and a leg” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Arm and a leg” effectively in context?
You can use "Arm and a Leg" to describe something that is very expensive or costs a lot. It emphasizes the idea of paying a high price for something. For example, if someone asks you about the price of a luxury item, you can say, 'It cost me an arm and a leg.'
- 1Shopping
I had to pay an arm and a leg for that designer handbag.
- 2Car Repairs
The repairs on my car cost me an arm and a leg.
- 3Concert Tickets
I can't believe they're charging an arm and a leg for concert tickets.
Similar phrases to “Arm and a leg”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Arm and a leg” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Arm and a Leg" is unknown.
Is “Arm and a leg” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Arm and a Leg" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the idea of something being very expensive or costing a lot.
What tone does “Arm and a leg” have?
"Arm and a Leg" conveys a tone of exaggeration and emphasis. It's often used in a lighthearted or humorous way to highlight the high cost of something.
Can “Arm and a leg” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Arm and a Leg" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of something being very expensive. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The repairs on my car cost me an arm and a leg.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That concert ticket is going to cost me an "arm and a leg"!' to imply the high price.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- be pricey
- be costly
- be steep
- be exorbitant
- be extravagant
Antonyms
- be affordable
- be inexpensive
- be cheap
- be reasonable
- be budget-friendly
