twist my arm
Meaning
To persuade someone to do something they don’t really want to do (often said jokingly when they actually agree).
Origin
From the literal idea of forcing compliance by physically twisting someone’s arm; it became a figurative way to mean strong persuasion, often softened into humorous use.
Notes
Often humorous: “Oh, twist my arm” = “OK, you’ve convinced me.” Can also mean real pressure/coercion depending on context and tone.
Examples
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If you insist, you can twist my arm—I’ll go with you.
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Another slice of cake? Well, twist my arm.
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Give me a free ticket and you’ve twisted my arm—I’ll come.
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They suggested a weekend at the hot springs, and I couldn’t resist; my arm was twisted.
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If your cooking is that good, go on—twist my arm and I’ll have another bite.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Commonly used as “(You’ll have to) twist my arm (to…)” or the fixed, joking reply “Twist my arm!” Usually with possessive: my/your/his arm. Often followed by an infinitive: “to come,” “to help.”
Synonyms
- persuade
- talk someone into
- coax
- pressure
- strong-arm
Antonyms
- refuse
- turn down
- decline