At arm's length: Learn what the means through example!

What does “At arm's length” mean?

"At arm's length" means to keep someone or something at a distance or to avoid getting too close.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He always keeps his coworkers at arm's length.

Example

She prefers to keep her personal life at arm's length from her colleagues.

Example

The celebrity tries to keep the paparazzi at arm's length

Is “At arm's length” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“At arm's length” 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 “At arm's length” effectively in context?

You can use "At arm's length" to describe keeping someone or something at a distance or avoiding getting too close. It implies maintaining a certain level of detachment or privacy. For example, if someone is cautious about forming close relationships with coworkers, you might say, 'He always keeps his coworkers at arm's length.'

• 1. Work

  She prefers to keep her personal life at arm's length from her colleagues.

• 2. Celebrity

  The celebrity tries to keep the paparazzi at arm's length.

• 3. Friendship

  He keeps new acquaintances at arm's length until he gets to know them better.

Similar phrases to “At arm's length”:

Keep one's distance

To maintain a certain physical or emotional separation from someone or something

Example

He prefers to keep his ex-girlfriend at a distance after their breakup.

Maintain a barrier

To establish and uphold a boundary or obstacle between oneself and others

Example

She maintains a barrier between her personal and professional life.

Stay aloof

To remain distant or uninvolved in a situation or relationship

Example

He tends to stay aloof from office politics.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “At arm's length” come from?

The origin of the phrase "At arm's length" is unknown.

Is “At arm's length” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "At arm's length" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe their approach to relationships or to express the need for personal space and boundaries.

What tone does “At arm's length” have?

"At arm's length" conveys a tone of caution or reservation. It suggests a desire to maintain a certain level of distance or privacy in order to protect oneself or maintain a sense of independence.

Can “At arm's length” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "At arm's length" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common behavior or attitude. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as professional meetings or written correspondence.

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, 'She prefers to keep her personal life at arm's length.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I like to keep things at "arm's length"' to imply a preference for distance or privacy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• keep at a distance
• maintain a safe distance
• avoid getting too close
• keep one's guard up
• create a buffer zone

Antonyms

• embrace closely
• welcome with open arms
• invite in
• get involved
• let someone in