Keep somebody at arm’s length

usgb
idiom

To avoid getting too friendly or close to someone.

George always keeps his colleagues at arm’s length to avoid any personal attachments.
Visual representation of "keep somebody at arm’s length" - To avoid getting too friendly or close to someone

Often appears as...

  • keep colleagues at arm's length
  • keep strangers at arm's length

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "keep somebody at arm’s length"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Professional Boundaries

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

Illustration for Professional Boundaries
As a manager, she keeps her team at arm’s length to ensure fair treatment.
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No Personal Details

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

Illustration for No Personal Details
I prefer to keep my neighbors at arm’s length so our conversations stay casual.
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Subtle Discomfort

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

Illustration for Subtle Discomfort
After the argument, they kept each other at arm’s length.
Visual representation of the word "Keep somebody at arm’s length"

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