The Economic Times

Phrase of the Day: Keep Someone at Arms Length- The expression that explains why some people never let you get too close

The idiom 'keep someone at arm's length' describes emotional distance and deliberate closeness avoidance. This phrase originates from a physical image of maintaining space between individuals. People maintain this distance for self-protection, privacy, or fear of vulnerability. It is important to distinguish this from simple physical separation or outright rejection. Understanding this idiom helps in navigating various personal and professional relationships.