# costs an arm and a leg

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/costs-an-arm-and-a-leg
Updated: 2026-06-07

## Meaning

Very expensive

## Examples

- That new designer watch costs an arm and a leg.
- I would love to go on a luxury cruise, but the ticket costs an arm and a leg.
- While the historic mansion is beautiful, maintaining such an old property costs an arm and a leg every single year.

## Origin

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). (folk)

---

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.