Keep At Arm's Length Meaning

(idiomatic) Avoid a close relationship.

Example: Stay at a distance, away from one's body.
2013, Chris Bevan, "Borussia Dortmund 0-1 Arsenal", BBC Sport, 6 November 2013:
  Ramsey's goal secured the points, but the win came on the back of a measured performance that saw Arsenal keep Dortmund at arm's length for long periods and score with a classic counter-attack.
  She's been keeping me at arm's length all the time. She doesn't want to get involved.