Costs an arm and a leg
The phrase "costs an arm and a leg" is a colorful idiom used to emphasize that something is exceptionally expensive or financially burdensome. Its origins are somewhat obscure, but it likely emerged in mid-20th century America, possibly influenced by the idea that the loss of a limb would entail a significant sacrifice. The use of "arm and a leg" metaphorically suggests that the price being paid for something is so exorbitant that it feels like giving up a substantial part of one's physical body.
This expression is commonly employed in everyday language to convey the idea of steep cost or excessive expense. Whether referring to the price of a luxury item, a costly repair, or a pricey service, saying that something "costs an arm and a leg" serves as a vivid and memorable way to highlight the financial strain or hardship involved. It conveys a sense of exaggeration to emphasize the extent of the expense, indicating that the cost is so high that it feels like a significant sacrifice akin to losing a limb. Overall, "costs an arm and a leg" is a colorful and effective idiom used to underscore the idea of extreme financial burden or expenditure.