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Showing results for arm's length. Search instead for arms+length.
Definitions

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.

The two planets will appear to be about the same distance in the sky as the width of your little finger held out at arm's length.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

While in space, the crew spoke of the surreal sights of our dusty, rugged natural satellite, appearing about the size of a bowling ball at arm’s length, suspended in the nothingness.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Noah Petro, head of NASA's planetary geology lab, told AFP that the Moon will look to the astronauts "about the size of a basketball held at arm's length."

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

“Western Star” is thus the rare authorized biography that keeps its subject at arm’s length.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Aaron yells, holding Manchee out at arm’s length.

From "The Knife of Never Letting Go" by Patrick Ness




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