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ClearCommunicationAppDecode Communication
Workplace
Move the goalposts
When requirements keep changing unfairly
Literal Meaning
To relocate the structure that serves as a target for a goal, such as in sports
Actual Meaning
To change the criteria or targets after work has begun
Examples in Context

Employee: 'They keep moving the goalposts.' (Translation: The targets keep changing)

Helpful Tips
  • 1Often frustrating
  • 2Document original requirements
  • 3Push back if needed
Phrase Thesaurus
Similar words and synonyms for this phrase
change the rules
shift the standards
alter the criteria
modify the expectations
Related Phrases
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Business as usual
All hat, no cattle