costs an arm and a leg

idiom

Meaning

Very expensive

Origin

folk etymology

Mid-20th-century American, appearing after WWII; likely a blend of older phrases like 'I'd give my right arm' (the story about portrait painters charging extra for limbs is folklore).

Examples

SIMPLE

That new designer watch costs an arm and a leg.

CONTEXTUAL

I would love to go on a luxury cruise, but the ticket costs an arm and a leg.

COMPLEX

While the historic mansion is beautiful, maintaining such an old property costs an arm and a leg every single year.

Last updated June 7, 2026