twist someone's arm
Say it: twist someone's ARM /ˌtwɪst ˌsʌmwʌnz ˈɑːm/ · idiom
What “twist someone's arm” means
Persuade someone to do something they hesitate to do.
More precisely: To persuade someone to do something they are reluctant to do, often playfully.
Example: “Another slice of cake? Well, if you twist my arm.”
When to use it
When gently pressing someone to agree, often jokingly about a treat or invitation. Informal and usually playful.
Similar words
persuade, pressure, talk someone into
Quick check
Your friend hesitates about joining karaoke, but your cheerful pleading finally persuades them. Which phrase describes what you did?
twist someone's arm or force someone's hand?
Show the answer
twist someone's arm
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