ENGLISH
REFERENCE

move the goalposts

idiom
Meaning

To alter the terms of an agreement or an agreed target, or the rules of a negotiation while it is ongoing, especially in an unfair way.

Origin

disputed origin

A metaphor of British origin derived from association football (soccer), from the idea that it is difficult for a player to kick the ball into the goal if it is moved.

Examples
SIMPLE

It is unfair when you move the goalposts during our game.

CONTEXTUAL

Just as I was about to finish the project, my boss moved the goalposts and asked for completely different results.

COMPLEX

The negotiators felt frustrated because, every time a consensus seemed within reach, the opposing party moved the goalposts to ensure the deal remained elusive.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bust a move

    To dance.

  2. 02

    get a move on

    To hurry up, to get moving.

  3. 03

    get moving

    To start hurrying to undertake a task.

  4. 04

    keep it moving

    To continue or advance notwithstanding any issue or obstacle.

  5. 05

    make a move

    To take action.

  6. 06

    move furniture

    To engage someone physically; to brawl.

  7. 07

    move heaven and earth

    To do whatever is necessary, including extreme or unusual actions; to go to extremes.

  8. 08

    move house

    To change one's place of residence.

Last updated April 17, 2026