Francophonie· medium
avoir le bras long
“to have a long arm”
Meaning
To have influence
Explanation
Describes someone with an extensive network of well-placed contacts who can obtain advantages for themselves and their associates.
Example
Si tu veux ce poste, parle à mon oncle, il a le bras long au ministère.
If you want that position, talk to my uncle, he has connections at the ministry.
Origin
'Bras' (arm) has meant authority in French for centuries. Longer arms reach farther, grab more. The expression dates to the 19th century.
Source
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