Goalpost: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is used in sports where goals are scored, such as soccer, football, and hockey. It refers to the vertical posts that form the sides of the goal.

• The ball hit the goalpost and bounced back into play.
• He aimed directly at the goalpost, but missed by a few inches.

This is a general term for the entire structure used in sports for scoring points, including the posts, the net, and sometimes the crossbar.

• He scored a goal in the last minute, winning the game for his team.
• The goalkeeper saved the ball, preventing it from going into the goal.

This term is a bit broader and can refer to the entire structure, including both the goalposts and the crossbar, but it isn't as commonly used in casual conversation.

• The ball hit the goal frame and ricocheted back into the field.
• During practice, players often aim at the goal frame to improve their accuracy.

This term refers to the horizontal bar that connects the two goalposts at the top in sports like soccer and football.

• The shot was so powerful that it struck the crossbar and went out of bounds.
• She jumped and touched the crossbar with her head during the play.

Usually used in sports contexts to refer to the physical posts that mark the scoring area. Figuratively, it can mean the criteria or expectations that need to be met, often used in a negative context when these expectations are changed unfairly.

• The soccer ball hit the goalpost and bounced back.
• They keep moving the goalposts, making it harder for us to meet their demands.

Often refers to specific goals or objectives that one aims to achieve. Used in business, marketing, and personal development to define desired outcomes.

• Our sales target for this quarter is $1 million.
• She hit her target weight after months of dieting and exercise.

Used when comparing current performance against a standard or reference point. Common in business, education, and technology to assess progress or quality.

• Our company's sales performance is benchmarked against industry leaders.
• Students' scores were used as a benchmark for educational achievement in the region.

Refers to a level of quality or attainment. Used in various contexts, including education, manufacturing, and daily life, to denote what is typical, normal, or expected.

• The company maintains high standards of customer service.
• This product meets international safety standards.