Keep somebody at arm’s length

idiom

To avoid getting too friendly or close to someone.

George always keeps his colleagues at arm’s length to avoid any personal attachments.

Idiomatic

idiom

John has learned to keep his enemies at arm’s length.

Idiomatic

idiom

George always keeps his colleagues at arm’s length to avoid any personal attachments.

Idiomatic

idiom

John has learned to keep his enemies at arm’s length.

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

Used in workplace settings to maintain professionalism and avoid over-familiarity.

As a manager, she keeps her team at arm’s length to ensure fair treatment.

Pro Tip 2/3

To not share personal life or details; staying impersonal in the interaction.

I prefer to keep my neighbors at arm’s length so our conversations stay casual.

Pro Tip 3/3

Indicates a sense of unease or discomfort about getting too close to someone.

After the argument, they kept each other at arm’s length.

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