Cost an Arm and a Leg

Definition

Cost an arm and a leg is an idiom meaning to be extremely expensive or to require a very large amount of money.

Parts of Speech

• Idiom
• Phrasal verb (intransitive)

Pronunciation

• IPA: /kɔːst ən ɑːrm ænd ə lɛɡ/
• Respelling: KAWST uhn ARM and uh LEG

Etymology

Mid 20th century American English: figurative use of body parts to emphasize high cost; exact origin uncertain.

Derivatives

• costs an arm and a leg (3rd person)
• cost me an arm and a leg (first person)
• cost you an arm and a leg (second person)

Synonyms

• break the bank
• pay through the nose
• be outrageously expensive
• set you back a fortune

Antonyms

• be affordable
• be a bargain
• cost next to nothing

Usage

The idiom "cost an arm and a leg" is used in informal contexts to describe items or services that are very expensive. For example, "This car costs an arm and a leg," or "Renovating the kitchen cost us an arm and a leg."

Related Terms

• Break the bank: To use up all of one’s money.
• Pay through the nose: To pay excessively high prices.
• Pricey: Informal term for expensive.
• Sticker shock: Surprise at high prices.
• Bargain: Something bought at a low price.

Detailed Definitions

Idiom / Phrasal Verb

• To be extremely costly – to require a very large sum of money.
  • Example: "Replacing the roof cost them an arm and a leg."
• To impose a heavy financial burden – to demand a high price or fee.
  • Example: "Their holiday plans cost them an arm and a leg once all expenses were added."