move the goalposts

Definition

To alter the terms of an agreement or an agreed target, or the rules of a negotiation while it is ongoing, especially in an unfair way.

Etymology

A metaphor of British origin derived from association football (soccer), from the idea that it is difficult for a player to kick the ball into the goal if it is moved.

Example Sentences

• "This is a Government that meets its economic targets and does not move the goalposts."
• "We were given a moving date, and an exchange date, but the buyers kept moving the goalposts and giving us a later date."
• "The tempo at which events are moving, the technological changes and the new developments being encountered on all sides sometimes gives the impression that the objectives or goal posts are constantly being moved."