Have you ever heard someone lamenting that something “cost an arm and a leg” and wondered where this expression comes from?
This phrase is a staple in the world of English idioms, painting a picture that immediately resonates with anyone who has ever faced an exorbitant expense.
What Does It Mean When Someone Says “Cost An Arm And A Leg”?
When someone says something “cost an arm and a leg,” they mean it is very expensive or lavishly priced. This hyperbole emphasizes the idea that the cost is so high it feels like one is sacrificing their limbs to afford it.
What Is The Origin Of “Cost An Arm And A Leg”?
The exact origin of this idiomatic expression is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States after World War II. The phrase likely evolved to dramatize the high price of goods and services.
Example Uses Of “Cost An Arm And A Leg” In Sentences
- The vintage car he bought cost an arm and a leg.
- Her wedding dress was beautiful, but it cost an arm and a leg.
- Traveling first class cost us an arm and a leg.
- Renovating the kitchen cost them an arm and a leg.
- That designer handbag cost an arm and a leg.
- Their dream vacation cost an arm and a leg.
- Getting tickets for the concert cost an arm and a leg.
- The exclusive club membership cost him an arm and a leg.
- Her new smartphone cost an arm and a leg.
- Sending their kids to private school cost an arm and a leg.
Synonyms Of “Cost An Arm And A Leg”
Herre are 9 other ways to say “cost an arm and a leg” idiom:
1. Break the Bank
When you want to convey that something is extremely costly in a more informal setting, “break the bank” works perfectly. For instance, “That new gaming console will break the bank.”
2. A King’s Ransom
Use this phrase in a more formal context or to add a touch of grandeur. For example, “The antique vase was worth a king’s ransom.”
3. Highway Robbery
This slang synonym is great for casual or humorous contexts. For example, “The price of popcorn at the movies is highway robbery!”
4. Pay Through the Nose
This phrase is perfect for an informal conversation, suggesting an outrageously high price. For example, “You’ll pay through the nose for repairs at that garage.”
5. Bleed Dry
For dramatic effect in a conversation about financial strain, use this idiom. For example, “The renovations are going to bleed us dry.”
6. Big Bucks
Use “big bucks” in a casual or conversational setting to emphasize the high cost. For example, “She earns big bucks at her new job.”
7. Cost a Fortune
This synonym is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. For example, “Their new house must have cost a fortune.”
8. Top Dollar
In a context where you want to emphasize paying the highest price, “top dollar” is suitable. For example, “They paid top dollar for front-row seats.”
9. Pricier Than Gold
This metaphor is excellent for a more poetic or descriptive setting. For example, “The handcrafted jewelry was pricier than gold.”
What Part Of Speech Is “Cost An Arm And A Leg”?
“Cost an arm and a leg” is an idiomatic expression used as a verb phrase. It describes the action of something being very expensive or costly, fitting into various sentences as a vivid descriptor.
Final Thoughts
Next time you find yourself shelling out more money than you’d like, you can say it cost you an arm and a leg, just be thankful you’re not actually missing any limbs!
