Region: General | Usage example: They resorted to arm twisting to secure the contract.

Arm twisting

Meaning

Persuading someone through pressure or intimidation.

Used in negative contexts when someone coerces another.

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Physical metaphor referencing applying pressure to bend someone's arm.

Used in political and business contexts since at least the early 20th century.