cost an arm and a leg
Say it: cost an ARM and a LEG /ˌkɒst ən ˌɑːm ənd ə ˈlɛɡ/ · idiom
What “cost an arm and a leg” means
Be extremely expensive.
More precisely: To be extremely expensive.
Example: “Renting a one-bed in central London costs an arm and a leg.”
When to use it
In informal conversation, to complain or joke about a very high price. It is deliberately exaggerated.
Similar words
cost a fortune, be pricey
Quick check
A basic replacement fridge would use nearly all the money you've saved this year. Which phrase describes its price?
cost an arm and a leg or cost a pretty penny?
Show the answer
cost an arm and a leg
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