ENGLISH
REFERENCE

move the needle

idiom
Meaning

To change a situation to a noticeable degree; to make an appreciable difference.


Origin

disputed origin

From the indicator needle of a measuring instrument such as a speedometer, dial indicator, etc; used both literally and figuratively.

Examples
SIMPLE

This small change does not move the needle.

CONTEXTUAL

The marketing team tried several new ads, but none of them really moved the needle on sales.

COMPLEX

While the new policy addresses minor concerns, it fails to move the needle on the systemic issues facing the organization.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    bust a move

    To dance.

  2. 02

    camel through the eye of a needle

    Hyperbole to illustrate something that is impossible to do or to make happen.

  3. 03

    get a move on

    To hurry up, to get moving.

  4. 04

    make a move

    To take action.

  5. 05

    move furniture

    To engage someone physically; to brawl.

  6. 06

    move heaven and earth

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

  7. 07

    move house

    To change one's place of residence.

  8. 08

    move on

    To continue; to proceed; to go on.

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