How to Pronounce "at arm's length"
expression
ˈæt/ /ˈɑɹmz/ /ˈɫɛŋkθ/, /ˈɫɛŋθ
AT ARMS LENGTH
ˈæt/ /ɑːmz/ /lˈɛŋθ
AT AHMS LENGTH
Definition
If you keep someone or something at arm's length, you deliberately avoid being too close to them, either physically or emotionally. It can also mean maintaining a safe or cautious distance in relationships.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈæt/ /ˈɑɹmz/ /ˈɫɛŋkθ/, /ˈɫɛŋθ
British English
ˈæt/ /ɑːmz/ /lˈɛŋθ
Simplified Pronunciation
US
AT ARMS LENGTH
UK
AT AHMS LENGTH
Listen in Context
She keeps everyone at arm's length.
Please stay at arm's length from the fire.
He likes to keep his personal life at arm's length from work.
We've always kept our neighbors at arm's length, just to avoid any trouble.