Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. Costs an arm and a leg
To be very expensive
Understanding the Idiom: Costs an Arm and a Leg
The question asks for the most appropriate meaning of the idiom "Costs an arm and a leg". Idioms are phrases or expressions whose meaning cannot be deduced simply from the literal meaning of their individual words. They have a figurative meaning that is commonly understood by native speakers.
Meaning of "Costs an Arm and a Leg"
The idiom "Costs an arm and a leg" is used to describe something that is extremely expensive. The image it conjures (losing limbs) highlights the perceived high price or cost, implying a significant sacrifice or payment is needed.
Analyzing the Options
Let's look at the given options and see which one matches the established meaning of the idiom "Costs an arm and a leg":
- Option 1: To be affordable
This means something is reasonably priced and easy to pay for. This is the opposite of what "Costs an arm and a leg" means. So, this option is incorrect. - Option 2: To be moderately priced
This suggests a price that is neither very high nor very low, but somewhere in the middle. This is also contrary to the meaning of the idiom, which implies a very high cost. So, this option is incorrect. - Option 3: To be free of charge
This means something costs nothing at all. This is completely opposite to the meaning of the idiom. So, this option is incorrect. - Option 4: To be very expensive
This means something has a very high cost. This perfectly matches the meaning of the idiom "Costs an arm and a leg".
Therefore, the most appropriate meaning of the idiom "Costs an arm and a leg" is "To be very expensive".
Why "Very Expensive" is the Correct Meaning
The idiom "Costs an arm and a leg" is a common way to emphasize the high price of an item or service. It is used hyperbolically to suggest that the cost is so high it feels like you are paying an extremely valuable price, metaphorically sacrificing something as precious as an arm and a leg.
Revision Table: Idioms and Meanings
| Idiom | Common Meaning | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Costs an arm and a leg | Very expensive | That new car must cost an arm and a leg! |
| Break a leg | Good luck (used before a performance) | "Break a leg!" shouted the director to the actors. |
| Bite the bullet | Endure a difficult situation | I had to bite the bullet and tell him the truth. |
Additional Information: Learning Idioms
Learning idioms is important for understanding and using English fluently. They add color and depth to language. When you encounter a new idiom, try to:
- Hear or read it in context.
- Look up its meaning in a dictionary.
- Try using it yourself in sentences.
The idiom "Costs an arm and a leg" is widely used and is a good one to add to your vocabulary.
Important Questions from Miscellaneous
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1. Distance between the longitudes becomes zero on North Pole and South Pole.
2. Distance between the longitudes is maximum on the Equator.
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