at arm's length

idiom

: from a distance that is the length of a person's arm

It's best to view the painting at arm's length.

holding a candle at arm's length

: in a condition that individuals act independently and without one having undue influence over another

a deal arranged at arm's length

Examples of at arm's length in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

The space between the second-row captain's chairs is a blessing, keeping the kids almost at arm's length, as is the rearview interior mirror and the Cabin Watch system that shows video of the rear passenger area, even at night. —

Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024 For most of the past century, U.S.-Mexican relations were conducted at arm's length. —

Shannon K. O'Neil, Foreign Affairs, 1 Mar. 2013 Bacon has been an outspoken moderate and worked diligently to keep Trump at arm's length in a district that Biden won in 2020. —

Tal Axelrod, ABC News, 4 Nov. 2024 Not only does this extender offer four plug options and four USB ports, but it can also be used as a charging stand to keep your phone, tablet, or headphones at arm's length. —

Wendy Vazquez, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for at arm's length

Cite this Entry

Style

“At arm's length.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/at%20arm%27s%20length. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Copy Citation