long arm: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘long arm’ mean?
The idiom "long arm" refers to the influence or power that someone or something has to reach or affect a wide range of people or situations. It suggests that this influence extends far beyond what is typically expected or imagined.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take someone's arm" means to hold someone's arm, often to guide or support them physically or emotionally.
The idiom "rub off on" means to influence or have an impact on someone, typically in terms of their behavior, attitude, or habits.
The idiom "pull the long bow" means to exaggerate or stretch the truth when telling a story or giving information.
The idiom "pull strings" means to use one's influence or connections to manipulate or control a situation in one's favor.
The idiom "pulling power" means the ability to attract or influence others, typically in romantic or persuasive contexts.
The idiom "powers that be" refers to the influential individuals or groups who hold authority or control over a particular situation or organization.
The idiom "power behind the throne" refers to a person who holds significant influence and control over a situation or an organization without having an official title or position of authority. This individual often pulls the strings and makes key decisions behind the scenes, while someone else holds the visible position of power.
The idiom "poor power" refers to someone who lacks authority, influence, or control in a given situation. It implies a lack of ability or effectiveness, leading to a disadvantageous position.
An idiom that means to expand or increase the length or content of something, often by adding unnecessary or unimportant details.
The idiom "on someone's hands" means that someone is responsible or accountable for something or someone.
Enigmatic Extent
The idiom "long arm" is rooted in the figurative sense of the word "long" being used to describe something extensive or far-reaching in a metaphorical sense. It serves as a vivid and concise way of conveying the idea of influence, power, or authority that extends beyond expected limits, often with a suggestion of control or surveillance.
One interpretation of the idiom is that a person with a "long arm" possesses the ability to reach or influence individuals or situations that are seemingly beyond their immediate reach. The idiom can imply the person's ability to exert control, enforce regulations, or exercise authority in unexpected or surprising ways.
The earliest recorded instances of the idiom date back to the 18th century. One example can be found in the 1764 novel "The Castle of Otranto" by Horace Walpole, where he writes, "This youth, whose features, though not handsome, had a something in them agreeable and venerable, advanced towards the company with a long-armed gravity."
Over time, the idiom has been adopted in various contexts and domains. In legal contexts, the term "long arm statute" refers to a law that grants a state jurisdiction over an out-of-state defendant if they have sufficient "minimum contacts" with that state, enabling the state's court system to reach and exert authority over them.
Beyond law, the idiom has been used in other domains as well. In the world of sports, for instance, a dominant athlete or team may be described as having a "long arm" that extends its influence over the competition through skill, strategic prowess, or even intimidation.
Additionally, the idiom can sometimes carry a negative connotation, suggesting an overreaching, intrusive, or controlling nature. It can evoke notions of surveillance or intrusion, as seen in the phrase "the long arm of the law," which implies that authorities have far-reaching powers to apprehend or punish individuals who transgress.
The idiom "long arm" is a metaphorical expression rooted in the idea of extensive or far-reaching influence, power, or authority. It conveys the notion of someone or something being able to reach beyond expected limits, often in a way that implies control, surveillance, or dominance. Its usage dates back to the 18th century and it has been adopted in various contexts, including law and sports. As with all idioms, its meaning may evolve and adapt over time, but its core essence of extended influence remains timeless.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "long arm" can be used in a sentence:
- He used his long arm to reach the top shelf and grab the book.
- The government's long arm extends to every corner of the country.
- Despite living in a remote village, his long arm of influence reached the highest levels of power.
More "Metaphorical" idioms
