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This week we learn idioms that take their root in the word arm. Cost someone an arm and a leg: cost someone a great deal of money. The designer watch has cost me an arm and a leg. Give one’s right arm: willing to make a great sacrifice in order to do/get something. I would give my right arm to go on a date with Brad Pitt. Keep/hold someone at arm’s length: avoid becoming too friendly with someone. I have been keeping her at an arm’s length ever since I found out that she has been gossiping about me. A shot in the arm: something that has a short-term effect of stimulating and reviving a situation. The news that the government has given tax exemption to the industry is a shot in the arm for many smaller units that have been struggling. Greet/welcome someone/something with open arms: be very pleased to see someone, or be very pleased with something new. Whenever I go to my aunt’s home, she welcomes me with open arms. The company is sure that its customers will welcome the easy finance scheme with open arms. The long arm of the law: the police. No matter where you go, you can’t escape the long arm of the law. (Could) do something with one arm/hand tied behind their back: do something very easily. In the past six months I have become so adept at cooking that now I can do it with one arm tied behind my back. Up in arms: very angry. The residents of my locality are up in arms over the proposed increase in the rates of cable TV. (Reference: Cambridge International Dictionary of Idioms) — PT |
