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/kˈiːp hˈəʊld ˌɛsbˈiː slˈaʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ at ˈɑːmz lˈɛŋθ/
/kˈiːp hˈoʊld ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ æt ˈɑːɹmz lˈɛŋθ/to keep sb/sth at arm's length
What is the origin of the idiom "keep someone or something at arm's length" and when to use it?
The idiom "keep someone or something at arm's length" has its origin in the physical act of extending one's arm to create distance or separation between oneself and another person or object, often to maintain a personal boundary or to avoid close involvement. It is used to convey the idea of keeping someone or something at a distance to avoid getting too close or becoming overly involved.
Example
She always keeps her personal life at arm's length from her professional relationships.
He's a nice guy, but I have to keep him at arm's length until I get to know him better.
The manager held the new project at arm's length until he was sure it was well-planned.
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![Definition & Meaning of "To [keep|hold] {sb/sth} at arm's (length|distance)"](https://api.langeek.co/v1/cpg/en/translation/normal/10228/to-keep-hold-sb-sth-at-arm-s-length-distance "Definition & Meaning of \"To [keep|hold] {sb/sth} at arm's (length|distance)\"")
