What does “Twist someone's arm” mean?
"Twist someone's arm" means to persuade or convince someone to do something they may not want to do.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I had to twist his arm to get him to come to the party.
Example
She didn't want to go on the roller coaster, but we twisted her arm and she finally agreed.
Example
They didn't want to stay for dessert, but we twisted their arm and they ended up enjoying it
Is “Twist someone's arm” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Twist someone's arm” 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 “Twist someone's arm” effectively in context?
You can use "Twist someone's arm" to describe the act of persuading or convincing someone to do something they may not want to do. It implies a certain level of pressure or coercion. For example, if a friend is hesitant to join a party, you might say, 'Come on, don't make me twist your arm! It'll be fun.'
- 1Social Events
I had to twist his arm to get him to come to the party.
- 2Overcoming Fears
She didn't want to go on the roller coaster, but we twisted her arm and she finally agreed.
- 3Trying New Things
They didn't want to stay for dessert, but we twisted their arm and they ended up enjoying it.
Similar phrases to “Twist someone's arm”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Twist someone's arm” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Twist someone's arm" is unknown.
Is “Twist someone's arm” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Twist someone's arm" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe the act of persuading or convincing someone to do something they may not want to do.
What tone does “Twist someone's arm” have?
"Twist someone's arm" conveys a tone of persuasion and influence. It suggests that there is some resistance or reluctance on the part of the person being persuaded.
Can “Twist someone's arm” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "twist someone's arm" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of convincing someone to do something against their initial inclination. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as negotiations, business meetings, or professional 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, 'I had to twist his arm to convince him to come.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "twist someone's arm"!' to imply the need for persuasion.
