Idiom of The Day – Cost an Arm and A Leg Meaning & Examples

Welcome back to our daily Idiom series — made to help you sound more natural in everyday English.
Today’s idiom is “Cost an Arm and A Leg.” Let’s learn what it means, when to use it, and see some quick examples.

Quick Summary

Idiom: Cost an Arm and a Leg
Meaning: Something that is very expensive or costs a lot of money
Example: That luxury car costs an arm and a leg!

When we say something costs an arm and a leg, we mean it’s extremely expensive, much more than what we’d expect to pay. As if you’d have to give up your arm and leg to afford it! It’s used to express shock or complaint about a high price.

So next time your friend tells you about a new gadget or trip that’s super pricey, you can say,
“Wow! That must’ve costed an arm and a leg!”

10 Simple Examples of Cost an Arm and A Leg Idiom

1. This designer handbag cost me an arm and a leg, but I couldn’t resist buying it.
2. Our wedding in Goa cost an arm and a leg, but it was worth every penny.
3. That iPhone upgrade will cost you an arm and a leg if you buy it right now.
4. The hotel near the beach costs an arm and a leg during the tourist season.
5. Rohan’s new gaming laptop cost an arm and a leg, but he’s thrilled with its performance.
6. I wanted to study abroad, but the tuition fees cost an arm and a leg.
7. That diamond necklace must have cost an arm and a leg!
8. The movie’s production cost an arm and a leg because of the special effects.
9. Repairing my old car would cost an arm and a leg, so I decided to buy a new one instead.
10. Tickets for the concert cost an arm and a leg, but it’s my favorite band, so I bought them anyway.

Want to learn more idioms easily? Check out our Complete Guide to Everyday American Idioms—you’ll find more simple meanings, fun examples, and real-life practice!

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If you want to learn about all the American Idioms, then here is our best curated complete list of A-Z Idioms list in one place.