keep at arm's length

Hello, you have come here looking for the meaning of the word keep at arm's length. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word keep at arm's length, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say keep at arm's length in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word keep at arm's length you have here. The definition of the word keep at arm's length will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition ofkeep at arm's length, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.

English

Pronunciation

  • (file)

Verb

keep at arm's length

  1. (transitive) Keep at a distance, away from one's body.
  2. (transitive, figuratively) Avoid direct confrontation or struggle.
    • 2013 November 6, Chris Bevan, “Borussia Dortmund 0-1 Arsenal”, in BBC Sport:
      Ramsey's goal secured the points, but the win came on the back of a measured performance that saw Arsenal keep Dortmund at arm's length for long periods and score with a classic counter-attack.
  3. (transitive, figuratively) Avoid a close relationship.
    She's been keeping me at arm's length all the time. She doesn't want to get involved.

Translations