Twist somebody’s arm

usgb
phrase

To persuade someone to do something they don't want to do.

I didn't want to go to the party, but my friends twisted my arm
Visual representation of "twist somebody’s arm" - To persuade someone to do something they don't want to do

Often appears as...

  • twist someone's arm into doing something
  • finally twisted my arm

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "twist somebody’s arm"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Non-Literal

The phrase is metaphorical and doesn't involve actual physical twisting of someone's arm.

Illustration for Non-Literal
She said she would never go camping but we managed to twist her arm.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Social Pressure

Often used to imply that the persuasion involved social pressure or a feeling of obligation rather than force.

Illustration for Social Pressure
His colleagues twisted his arm into attending the office party.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Friendly Persuasion

The phrase can imply a friendly and light-hearted persuasion, not a serious or threatening one.

Illustration for Friendly Persuasion
After much chat and laughter, they finally twisted my arm to join the dance.
Visual representation of the word "Twist somebody’s arm"

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