goal-post

goal-post

The soccer ball hits the goal-post and bounces back onto the field.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A physical structure in sports: "goal-post" refers to either of the two upright posts that form part of a goal in games like football (soccer), hockey, or rugby. The posts are typically connected by a crossbar, and the ball must pass between them (and under the crossbar) to score a goal.
    • A metaphorical target: Informally, "goal-post" can be used to describe a fixed point or objective in a discussion, negotiation, or process, often implying that the target is moved or changed.
Usage Examples

  • Noun (sports):

    • The striker kicked the ball straight into the goal-post. (The ball hit the upright post of the goal.)
    • The goal-post was damaged during the match and had to be replaced. (The physical structure of the goal was broken.)

  • Noun (metaphorical):

    • In the meeting, they kept moving the goal-post, making it impossible to agree. (They changed the criteria or target during the negotiation.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to move the goal-posts": an idiom meaning to change the rules or objectives of a situation unfairly or unexpectedly, often to make it harder for someone to succeed.

    • The manager kept moving the goal-posts, so the team never knew what was expected. (The manager altered the requirements without notice.)

  • "goal-post" in compound contexts: In sports commentary, the term may be used in phrases like "hit the goal-post" (to strike the post with the ball) or "goal-post clearance" (when a ball hits the post and is cleared away).

Variants and Related Words

  • Goalpost (n, alternative spelling): The same as "goal-post," often written as a single word.

    • The goalpost was painted white for better visibility. (The same structure.)

  • Goal (n): the act of scoring, or the frame itself (though "goal" often refers to the entire structure including the net).

    • He scored a goal from a free kick. (He successfully sent the ball into the net.)
Synonyms
  • Upright: a vertical post, especially in sports.
  • Post: a long, sturdy piece of wood or metal used as a support.
Related Idioms

  • Move the goal-posts: to change the criteria or objectives in a way that disadvantages someone.

    • Just when we thought we had met the requirements, they moved the goal-posts. (They changed the rules.)

  • Hit the goal-post: to strike the upright post of a goal with the ball, often resulting in no goal.

    • His shot hit the goal-post and bounced away. (The ball struck the post.)