Costs an Arm and a Leg — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

When something costs an arm and a leg, the price is so high it feels like a huge sacrifice to pay it.

It's used to express that something is overpriced or far more expensive than expected.

Use it when…

When you're surprised or frustrated by an unexpectedly high price.
When something you need is well beyond what you can comfortably afford.
When you want to warn someone that a product or service is very costly.

Don’t confuse with...

"Break the Bank"

—

Spend so much that it seriously damages your finances

"Dirt Cheap"

—

Cost very little; be extremely inexpensive

"Costs an Arm and a Leg"

—

Be extremely expensive or overpriced

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Costs an Arm and a Leg" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Office Conversations

The team scrapped the idea of an off-site retreat after the venue quote cost an arm and a leg.

Relationships & Social Life

Romantic Partners

They decided to skip the fancy restaurant after seeing the menu — it cost an arm and a leg for a simple dinner.

Media & Everyday Life

Daily Situations

He was shocked when the mechanic's estimate came through — fixing a minor issue was going to cost an arm and a leg.

‹›

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Costs an Arm and a Leg" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Problem-Solving

Colleague

Did you look into that project management software everyone keeps recommending?

You

I did, but it costs an arm and a leg — we'd need to find a cheaper option.

Relationships

Talking to Partner

You

The plumber just gave me a quote — it costs an arm and a leg to fix the bathroom.

Partner

How much are we talking? Maybe we should get a second opinion.

Everyday Conversations

Small Talk

Friend

Did you end up going to that new rooftop bar downtown?

You

We went once — but the drinks cost an arm and a leg, so probably not again.

‹›

Last updated:

April 20, 2026

Become an Insider

Get exclusive invitations to try our new English online courses FOR FREE.

Enjoy special discounts and unique offers for club members only!

Become an Insider

Tell us a bit about you to unlock more relevant content and insider perks.

Where do you want to improve your English?*

Helps us tailor content to you.

Select an option

Where are you based? (optional)

Select country

What's your native language? (optional)

Select language

First Name (optional)

I consent to theidiomdaily.com collecting and storing my data for the purpose of sending newsletters, updates, and promotional content. I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time by using the link provided in the emails. By checking this box, I agree to the Privacy Policy.

You’re in! Welcome to
the Insider Club.

Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again.

Unsubscribe
anytime.

Trusted by

1.5M+

English learners &
teachers worldwide