definition meaning of cost an arm and a leg , meaning, synonym, antonym, use example and related words to cost an arm and a leg

COST AN ARM AND A LEG

Meaning of COST AN ARM AND A LEG

COST AN ARM AND A LEG Idiom

Cost an Arm and a Leg is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that is extremely expensive or costly.

Exorbitant Expense: When something “costs an arm and a leg,” it means that it is prohibitively expensive, requiring a significant amount of money to obtain or purchase. The expression emphasizes the high cost of the item or service in question.

Financial Burden: The phrase implies that the expense is so substantial that it may be perceived as unreasonably burdensome or excessive, often stretching one’s financial resources to their limits. It suggests that the cost is far beyond what is considered reasonable or affordable.

Hyperbolic Comparison: The use of body parts such as “arm and a leg” in the expression is hyperbolic, exaggerating the extent of the expense for dramatic effect. It emphasizes the notion that the cost is metaphorically equivalent to the loss of something of great value or importance.

Symbolic Value: While the expression is figurative and does not refer to literal physical loss, it symbolizes the significant sacrifice or hardship associated with bearing the financial burden of the expensive item or service.

Cost an Arm and a Leg is an idiom used to convey the idea of something being extremely expensive or costly. It emphasizes the exorbitant expense of an item or service, often suggesting a financial burden that is perceived as unreasonably high or excessive. The phrase employs hyperbolic comparison to emphasize the significant sacrifice or hardship associated with bearing such a high cost.

COST AN ARM AND A LEG in a sentence

  • Costing an arm and a leg is an idiom that means something is very expensive or comes at a high price.
  • The designer dress she wanted to buy would have cost her an arm and a leg, so she opted for a more affordable option.
  • Buying a new car can cost an arm and a leg, especially if you choose a luxury model.
  • Traveling during peak season can cost an arm and a leg due to increased demand for flights and accommodations.
  • Renovating the kitchen would cost an arm and a leg, so they decided to postpone the project until they could save more money.
  • The rare antique clock cost them an arm and a leg, but it was worth it to add to their collection.
  • Medical treatments for serious illnesses can cost an arm and a leg, placing a significant financial burden on families.
  • Some people are willing to cost an arm and a leg for experiences that they consider priceless, such as traveling to exotic destinations or attending special events.

Origin of COST AN ARM AND A LEG

The idiom “cost an arm and a leg” is believed to have originated in the United States during the mid-20th century. Its precise origin is uncertain, but it likely emerged as a colorful metaphor to describe something that is extremely expensive or costly.

The phrase uses hyperbolic imagery, suggesting that the price of something is so exorbitant that it would require sacrificing a significant part of one’s body, namely an arm and a leg, to afford it. This idiom is commonly used to emphasize the high cost of goods, services, or experiences, often in a humorous or exaggerated manner.

While its exact origin is unclear, the idiom has become ingrained in the English language and is frequently used in everyday speech to convey the idea of something being prohibitively expensive. It has also been widely used in literature, journalism, and other forms of communication.

Synonyms

  • Break the bank
  • Pay through the nose
  • Shell out a fortune
  • Spend a small fortune
  • Empty one’s pockets
  • Fork over a substantial amount
  • Pay dearly
  • Splurge on

Antonyms

  • Affordable
  • Inexpensive
  • Budget-friendly
  • Cost-effective
  • Cheap
  • Within Reach
  • Economical
  • Budget-Friendly

Related

  • Not worth a red cent
  • Penny-wise and pound-foolish
  • Cost an arm, a leg, and a kidney
  • Money doesn’t grow on trees
  • You get what you pay for
  • A dime a dozen
  • Cut corners
  • Bang for the buck

🌐 🇬🇧 COST AN ARM AND A LEG in other languages

Terms of Use

Privacy & Cookies

Disclaimer

Who We Are

Main Sections

Idioms

Geographical Locations

Organisations

Professions

Let´s Talk

Contact

Instagram

® 2024 https://DefinitionGo.com