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An Arm and a Leg

What Does "An Arm and a Leg" Mean?

homeidiomsAn Arm and a Leg
"An arm and a leg" is an English idiom. It means "a large amount of money or a high cost."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "an arm and a leg" used in a sentence:
  • That designer dress must have cost her an arm and a leg.
  • I'm not spending an arm and a leg just to get the latest phone.
  • Renting a place in the city center will cost you an arm and a leg.
meaning for an arm and a leg

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "An Arm and a Leg" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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