cost an arm and a leg
Listen
Meaning
To be very expensive.
Examples
- That new phone costs an arm and a leg.
- Our flat in the city centre cost us an arm and a leg.
- I love concerts, but good tickets cost an arm and a leg.
How to use it
Use it for prices that feel too high. It is informal. The verb is cost, and it can change tense: it costs, it cost, it will cost.
Common mistake
Not: This bag costs a hand and a leg.
Say: This bag costs an arm and a leg. (Do not change the words.)
Last updated 20 October 2026