The expression “cost an arm and a leg” is a vivid part of everyday English, used to denote something exceedingly expensive.
But what does this phrase really mean, and where did it originate?
This article dives into the roots and meanings of this striking idiom, providing insight and alternatives to enrich your understanding.
‘Cost an Arm and a Leg’ Origin and History
The idiom “cost an arm and a leg” is often used to describe something very expensive, but its specific origin is not definitively known.
However, there are a few theories that attempt to explain how this phrase came into common usage:
World War II Origin
One popular theory suggests that the idiom emerged around or after World War II.
It is thought to have been derived from the high cost paid by soldiers who lost limbs in the war—literally costing them an arm and a leg.
This theory connects the physical cost to the figurative expression used to describe the high monetary cost of something.
Earlier Artistic Origins
Another theory links the phrase to the practices of painters who charged more based on the number of limbs they had to paint in a portrait.
Capturing arms and legs in a painting required more skill and effort, thereby increasing the cost of the portrait.
This connection, though frequently mentioned, lacks solid historical documentation but offers an intriguing possibility about how high costs and the extremities could have been linked metaphorically.
Related – Here is where the idiom ‘at the drop of a hat’ originates from.
General Metaphorical Use
It may also simply arise from the use of hyperbole—a rhetorical device that involves exaggerated statements not meant to be taken literally.
In this case, saying something costs an arm and a leg is just an expressive way to indicate that it is extremely expensive, akin to saying one would have to give up very essential parts of oneself to afford it.
While the true origin of “cost an arm and a leg” remains somewhat unclear, these theories reflect the general use of the phrase in conveying significant expense or sacrifice. The idiom has been widely used in English-speaking countries from at least the mid-20th century, cementing its place in the language as a description of steep costs.
‘Cost an Arm and a Leg’ Idiom Meaning Explained
The idiom “cost an arm and a leg” is used to describe something very costly, often to the point of being excessively so.
It suggests that the price is so high that it is akin to giving up vital parts of one’s body, thus highlighting the extremity of the cost.
This phrase is often employed to express dissatisfaction with high prices or to emphasize the significant sacrifice needed to obtain something.
Example Sentences:
“The repairs on the car cost me an arm and a leg, but it’s finally running again.”
“I’d love to buy that designer dress, but it costs an arm and a leg.”
‘Cost an Arm and a Leg’ Synonyms
There are several synonyms for “cost an arm and a leg” that convey the sense of something being very expensive. Here are some alternatives you can use:
- Pay through the nose
- Cost a fortune
- Break the bank
- Pay top dollar
- Cost the earth
These synonyms can be used interchangeably with “cost an arm and a leg” to add variety to your language when discussing high expenses.
‘Cost an Arm and a Leg’ Antonyms
When something is not at all expensive and is actually quite affordable, you can use the following antonyms for the saying “cost an arm and a leg”:
- Dirt cheap
- A steal
- Budget-friendly
- Economical
- Affordable
These phrases suggest minimal financial outlay, contrasting with the significant expenditure implied by “cost an arm and a leg.”
How to Reply When Someone Says Something Costs ‘An Arm and a Leg’?
When someone describes something as costing “an arm and a leg,” they’re highlighting its high price.
Your response can vary depending on the context or your relationship with the speaker. Here are a few ways to reply:
Express Sympathy: “That sounds way too expensive! Hope it’s worth it.”
Offer Alternatives: “That’s pretty steep. Have you looked for a cheaper option?”
Acknowledge the Expenditure: “It must be really important to you to spend that much!”
Share in the Sentiment: “I know, prices these days can really be outrageous.”
Your reply can be sympathetic, helpful, or simply commiserative, depending on how you relate to the person’s situation.
More Idioms Similar to ‘Cost an Arm and a Leg’ and Their Meanings
For those intrigued by colorful expressions of cost, here are more idioms that articulate the concept of high expenses, each with its unique flair:
Pay an arm and a leg – A variant of the original, used in similar contexts to emphasize high costs.
Give one’s right arm – Although not always about money, this expression shows a willingness to give up a lot for something desired.
Spend a pretty penny – Implies that a lot of money was spent, often more than what might seem reasonable.
Fork over a lot – A casual way to say that a substantial amount of money was paid or will need to be paid.
Shell out big bucks – Similar to “break the bank,” it indicates a large amount of money spent.
These idioms enrich conversations about financial transactions, providing vivid ways to discuss costs and value in everyday dialogue.
Enjoyed this article? You’ll love reading my explanation of what the idiom ‘piece of cake’ means.