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

They have no good options, but a shift to an arm’s-length relationship is likely to make for a less pleasant business environment for U.S. companies operating overseas.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 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

Mr Campbell said it was time for the Scottish government, which part-funds the game through its arm's-length body SportScotland, to intervene.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2025

He is slightly farther than arm’s-length away and does not make contact with the man.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 14, 2024

But when she was almost at arm’s-length distance, he sank again.

From The Motor Maids by Palm and Pine by Stokes, Katherine