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Shifting the goalposts" is an idiom that means changing the rules or conditions of a situation, often in a way that is unfair or designed to make it more difficult for someone to achieve their goal. It implies that someone is deliberately making it harder for another person to succeed by moving the target or changing the requirements after the activity has already begun, according to several online dictionaries. Here's a breakdown of what it means in different contexts: In general: It signifies a change in expectations or standards, often to the disadvantage of someone else. Imagine playing a game where the rules keep changing mid-game, making it harder to win. In an argument: It can refer to someone who keeps changing their stance or demands during a discussion to avoid conceding or to keep arguing. For example, if someone keeps adding new requirements after an agreement has been reached, they are shifting the goalposts. In the workplace: It can mean a manager changing performance expectations or job duties after the work has already started, without proper justification or compensation, says a business blog. In politics: It can describe a situation where a political party or leader changes their position or priorities to suit their current needs, potentially misleading the public or undermining previous promises, reports Forbes. In everyday language: It's a negative term, implying unfairness and manipulation. People generally dislike when goalposts are moved because it creates a sense of instability and distrust.