As an English teacher, I have been creating content for both Korean learners and global English learners. This blog is where I share the expressions and idioms I cover in my lessons — and today’s expression is one you’ll use every time something is way too expensive: “Cost an arm and a leg.”
What does “cost an arm and a leg” mean?
“Cost an arm and a leg” means something is extremely expensive — so expensive that it feels like you’re giving up a part of your body to pay for it.
You use it when the price of something shocks you or feels completely unreasonable.
Real life examples:
- “That new iPhone costs an arm and a leg — I’ll wait for the price to drop.”
- “Dinner at that restaurant cost us an arm and a leg but it was worth it.”
- “Flying business class costs an arm and a leg.”
- “I wanted to buy a house in Seoul but it costs an arm and a leg.”
- “Good quality coffee doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.”
Where did this come from?
This expression became popular in the 20th century. The idea is simple — your arms and legs are the most valuable things you have. If something costs that much, it must be incredibly expensive.
Similar expressions:
- “Break the bank” — spend more money than you can afford
- “Doesn’t come cheap” — something is expensive
- “Pricey” — informal word for expensive
Quick recap:
Cost an arm and a leg = extremely expensive. Next time you see a shocking price tag, you know exactly what to say! 💸
Want to learn more natural English?
Hi, I’m Yehs Sam 👋 I have been teaching English and creating content to help learners sound more natural and confident — for both Korean learners and global English learners.
🐢⚡ Turtle Zeus — Slow but surely, we get there.
Is there a slang word or English expression you’ve always wanted to know? Drop it in the comments below — I’d love to cover it in my next post!