idiom

keep someone at arm's length

3Sections

To keep someone at a distance; to avoid becoming too friendly with someone

Definition

To keep someone at a distance; to avoid becoming too friendly with someone

Examples

  • She KEEPS everyone AT ARM'S LENGTH
  • He's been KEEPING her AT ARM'S LENGTH lately
  • I try to KEEP my colleagues AT ARM'S LENGTH

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms:

  • keep distant
  • avoid getting close

Antonyms:

  • get close to
  • embrace

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