[Idiom] COST AN ARM AND A LEG. - Discover Surprising Origins of Everyday Expressions

Extremely expensive.

The phrase "Cost an arm and a leg" is an intriguing idiom often used to describe something very expensive, possibly unreasonably so. It's believed to have originated from the history where portraits without limbs were cheaper than full-body ones. Thus, depicting someone with all limbs implied a high price tag. In modern usage, it reflects the idea of having to give up significant resources—metaphorically losing limbs—to afford something. This colorful expression adds dramatic flair to conversations about high costs and is a favorite in discussions involving hefty expenditures, be it for cars, houses, or rare collectibles.

Example Sentences

1. Buying that car will cost an arm and a leg.

   Cost an arm and a leg.

2. This house costs an arm and a leg!

   Indicates that purchasing the car is very expensive.

3. If you want that designer jacket, it'll cost you an arm and a leg.

   Emphasizes the high cost of the house.