# move the goalposts

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/move-the-goalposts
Updated: 2026-08-10

## 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.

## Examples

- It is unfair when you move the goalposts during our game.
- They move the goalposts every time I try to earn a bonus.
- You move the goalposts whenever we argue about the house rules.
- Just as I was about to finish the project, my boss moved the goalposts and asked for completely different results.
- The bank moved the goalposts by adding new requirements for the loan after I had already submitted all my paperwork.
- I thought I needed sixty percent to pass the exam, but the teacher moved the goalposts and changed it to seventy.
- The negotiators felt frustrated because, every time a consensus seemed within reach, the opposing party moved the goalposts to ensure the deal remained elusive.

## Origin

A metaphor of British origin, the phrase is derived from association football. It is based upon the observation that a player finds it rather difficult to kick a ball into a goal if the goal itself is being moved during the attempt.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.