# an arm and a leg

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/an-arm-and-a-leg
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Usually used after the verb cost, but also often charge, pay, and spend: a very high price for an item or service; an exorbitant price

## Examples

- That new phone cost me an arm and a leg.
- I wanted to buy tickets for the concert, but they cost an arm and a leg, so I decided to stay home.
- Although the vintage car was in pristine condition, the seller demanded an arm and a leg, forcing the collector to walk away from the deal.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.