[twist] {one's} arm
1
to force or persuade someone to do something they are unwilling to do
The the origin of the idiom "twist one's arm" is not entirely clear, but it is likely derived from the idea of twisting or bending someone's arm to cause discomfort or pain. This expression is used to imply that one is applying force or influence to obtain consent or cooperation.
- I didn't want to go to the party, but my friends really twisted my arm until I agreed to join them.
- The manager had to twist his employee's arm to convince them to work overtime on short notice.
- She resisted at first, but the enticing offer eventually twisted her arm, and she decided to take the job.
- Sometimes, parents have to twist their children's arms a bit to get them to do their homework.
- The team lead had to twist a few arms to ensure everyone met the project deadline.