move the needle
To change a situation to a noticeable degree; to make an appreciable difference.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“This small change does not move the needle.”
“The marketing team tried several new ads, but none of them really moved the needle on sales.”
“While the new policy addresses minor concerns, it fails to move the needle on the systemic issues facing the organization.”
Derived from the physical indicator needle of a measuring instrument, such as a speedometer. The expression refers to the literal movement of a dial across a gauge to show a measurable change in state.
- 01
bust a move
To dance.
- 02
camel through the eye of a needle
Hyperbole to illustrate something that is impossible to do or to make happen.
- 03
get a move on
To hurry up, to get moving.
- 04
get moving
To start hurrying to undertake a task.
- 05
keep it moving
To continue or advance notwithstanding any issue or obstacle.
- 06
make a move
To take action.
- 07
move furniture
To engage someone physically; to brawl.
- 08
move heaven and earth
To do whatever is necessary, including extreme or unusual actions; to go to extremes.
Last updated August 10, 2026