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

What it means...

To be extremely expensive.

When something costs an arm and a leg, the price feels painfully high and paying it hurts.

It's used to say something is overpriced or costs far more 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.

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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.

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Last updated:

October 4, 2026

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