Avoir le bras long
Example: Il a le bras long et obtient toujours ce qu'il veut.
Definition
"Avoir le bras long" is a French expression meaning to have extensive influence or powerful connections that allow someone to achieve their goals or get what they want easily, often by using these contacts or authority behind the scenes.
Etymology
The expression "avoir le bras long" literally means "to have a long arm" in French. It originates from the metaphor of having a long reach, symbolizing the ability to extend one's influence far beyond the immediate vicinity. This phrase highlights the idea of power or connections that stretch out to help achieve objectives, much like a long arm can reach distant places.
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"Avoir le bras long" appears in the Vocaplus list "", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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