MOVE GOALPOST Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "move the goalpost" is an idiomatic expression that originates from sports, particularly football. In its literal sense, goalposts represent the objective boundaries in a game, where players strive to score points by maneuvering the ball between them. However, as a metaphor, "moving the goalpost" refers to the act of changing the criteria, standards, or expectations of something after they have been established in order to make it more difficult for someone to achieve success or reach a desired outcome.
Figuratively, "moving the goalpost" signifies altering the rules or standards midway through a process to disadvantage someone or render their efforts obsolete. This can be motivated by an individual's desire to maintain control, exert power, or protect their interests. The term often implies a sense of unfairness or injustice, as it undermines the sense of fairness and consistency that is expected in goal-oriented situations.
"Moving the goalpost" can occur in various contexts, such as personal relationships, negotiations, debates, or even bureaucratic processes. It can be employed in interpersonal conflicts, where one party changes the original terms of an agreement to gain an advantage or avoid a certain outcome. In arguments or debates, it refers to continuously shifting the criteria for success or changing the subject to avoid acknowledging the opposing viewpoint or conceding defeat.
In conclusion, the phrase "moving the goalpost" encapsulates the act of altering established rules or expectations, particularly in order to put someone at a disadvantage or make it more challenging for them to achieve their goals.
Etymology of MOVE GOALPOST
The phrase "moving the goalpost" originated from sports, particularly football (soccer) and American football. Etymologically, the word "goalpost" refers to the two vertical posts that are placed at each end of the playing field, forming the goal or scoring area.
The figurative expression "move the goalpost" emerged from the practice of changing the position of the goalpost during a game, thereby making it harder for the opposing team to score a goal. This shifting of the goalpost was seen as unfair and misleading, as it altered the rules and expectations that had been established beforehand.
Over time, the phrase "move the goalpost" has been adopted in various contexts beyond sports to indicate a similar tactic of altering the rules or criteria of a situation or argument to make it more difficult for someone to achieve a goal or success. It implies shifting the target or changing the conditions of success after the initial expectations have been set.
