keep (someone or something) at arm's length
idiom
: to avoid being very close to or friendly with someone or something
Since going to college, he has kept his old friends at arm's length.
They no longer trust her and are keeping her at arm's length.
Dictionary Entries Near keep (someone or something) at arm's length
keep (someone) on his/her toes
keep (someone or something) at arm's length
Cite this Entry
“Keep (someone or something) at arm's length.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/keep%20%28someone%20or%20something%29%20at%20arm%27s%20length. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.
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