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arm's length

[ahrmz-lengkth, -length] / ˈɑrmzˌlɛŋkθ, -ˌlɛŋθ /
NOUN
at a distance to exclude intimacy
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Japan had kept Brazil at arm's length in their last-32 tie, got themselves in front, and looked quite comfortable.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2026

Palladio liked to set the formal residence at the center while holding the working parts—stables and kitchens—at arm’s length, reached by colonnaded passages.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 19, 2026

They were far from their fluent best in attack, but head coach Clarke praised his side's resilience as they kept Haiti at arm's length in Foxborough.

From BBC • Jun. 14, 2026

Mark, on a skateboard, and Jacob, also wearing inline skates, followed a little more than an arm’s length behind.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2026

She hugged me back, then pulled away and held me at arm’s length.

From "Schooled" by Gordon Korman




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