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an arm and (a) leg
01
a large sum of money
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "an arm and leg" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "an arm and leg" is uncertain, but it is believed to have become popular in the mid-20th century, possibly influenced by similar expressions that imply a significant cost or sacrifice. This phrase is used to describe something that is excessively expensive or requires a significant sacrifice in terms of cost or effort.
Example
The wedding ceremony at the exclusive venue was lovely, but it came with a price tag of an arm and leg.
The designer handbag was beautiful, but it wasn't worth paying an arm and a leg for it.
The luxury car he bought cost him an arm and a leg, but he considered it a status symbol.
The medical treatment for her condition was so costly that it felt like it would cost an arm and a leg.
He loved collecting rare coins, but some of the coins he desired cost an arm and leg.
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