"Put the arm on" is an idiomatic expression which originated in North America, specifically in the United States. This colloquial phrase is primarily used in informal contexts and has multiple meanings depending on the context. It is often employed to describe the act of exerting pressure or manipulation on someone, typically for personal gain or advantage.
One interpretation of "put the arm on" refers to the act of forcefully soliciting money or favors from someone, usually through intimidation or coercion. It may involve exerting emotional or psychological pressure to make the person give in to one's demands. For instance, in a sentence: "He put the arm on his friend to lend him some money."
Another meaning of "put the arm on" is to ask someone for a favor or contribution in a persuasive or assertive manner. In this sense, the expression conveys the idea of making a strong request, perhaps with persistence and determination, usually expecting a positive outcome.
The phrase can also be used metaphorically, indicating the act of persuading or exerting influence on someone to achieve a certain goal or outcome, which may not necessarily involve financial matters. It may encompass coercion, persuasion, or even emotional manipulation to attain the desired result.
In summary, "put the arm on" denotes the act of pressuring, manipulating, or persuading someone, often for personal gain or advantage. It can encompass anything from forcefully soliciting money or favors through intimidation to making strong requests or exerting influence to achieve a specific outcome.
