Definition & Meaning of "Stretch arm no further than sleeve"

stretch one's arm no further than one's sleeve (will reach)

/stɹˈɛtʃ wˈɒnz ˈɑːm nˈəʊ ˌɛni fˈɜːðə ðɐn wˈɒnz slˈiːv wɪl ɹˈiːtʃ/

/stɹˈɛtʃ wˈʌnz ˈɑːɹm nˈoʊ ˌɛni fˈɜːðɚ ðɐn wˈʌnz slˈiːv wɪl ɹˈiːtʃ/

to stretch one's arm no further than one's sleeve (will reach)

PHRASE

The origin of this idiom is not clear, but it likely developed from the idea of being cautious and not overreaching or attempting more than one can handle.

to [stretch] {one's} arm no further than {one's} [sleeve] (will reach|) definition and meaning

What is the origin of the idiom "stretch one's arm no further than one's sleeve " and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "stretch one's arm no further than one's sleeve " is not clear, but it likely developed from the idea of being cautious and not overreaching or attempting more than one can handle. This phrase is used to advise someone not to take on more tasks, responsibilities, or commitments than they can manage effectively.