arm's-length

American  

[ahrmz-lengkth, -length] / ˈɑrmzˌlɛŋkθ, -ˌlɛŋθ /

adjective

1. not closely or intimately connected or associated; distant; remote.

   an arm's-length relationship.

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arm's-length British  

adjective

1. lacking intimacy or friendliness, esp when possessing some special connection, such as previous closeness

   we now have an arm's-length relationship

2. (of commercial transactions) in accordance with market values, disregarding any connection such as common ownership of the companies involved

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Etymology

Origin of arm's-length

First recorded in 1645–55

Example Sentences

“What we have to think about with a lot of these affiliations in place is trying to make sure that these arm’s-length assessments are still happening,” Mears said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Yet CEOs have a fiduciary duty to conceal strategic information that could tip off competitors from arm’s-length shareholders.

From Barron's • Jan. 2, 2026

“This is an arm’s-length business relationship,” Vartian said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2024

Most Americans assess this conflict the way they do many others: at arm’s-length and an ocean away.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 20, 2023

She did not doubt that he would propose before he left her that afternoon, and yet she wanted to keep him at arm’s-length as long as she could.

From Vistas of New York by Matthews, Brander