Goal Idioms (With Meaning and Examples)

In this post, we’re diving into the colorful world of idioms that revolve around the theme of “goal.” Idioms are fun phrases that don’t always mean what they say but can add flavor to our language. Even if you’re a kid or new to English, you’ll find these expressions simple and interesting!

Goal Idioms

Here are 20 goal idioms in English.

1. Eye on the prize

Meaning: Stay focused on the goal.

Example: She kept her eye on the prize during the competition.

2. Hit the target

Meaning: Achieve an aim.

Example: He hit the target on his sales goal.

3. On the ball

Meaning: Alert and efficient.

Example: You need to be on the ball to win.

4. Score a goal

Meaning: Successfully achieve something.

Example: She scored a goal with her project idea.

5. Home stretch

Meaning: Final part of a process.

Example: We’re in the home stretch of the project.

6. Cross the finish line

Meaning: Complete something.

Example: He finally crossed the finish line on his thesis.

7. Raise the bar

Meaning: Set higher standards.

Example: They raised the bar for next year’s event.

8. Go the extra mile

Meaning: Do more than expected.

Example: He went the extra mile to help his team.

9. In the long run

Meaning: Over a long period of time.

Example: It pays off in the long run.

10. Knock it out of the park

Meaning: Do something exceptionally well.

Example: She knocked it out of the park with her speech.

11. Make the cut

Meaning: Succeed in being selected or approved.

Example: He made the cut for the soccer team.

12. Up to par

Meaning: Reaching an acceptable standard.

Example: Your work is not up to par with others.

13. Set the pace

Meaning: Establish a speed for others to follow.

Example: She sets the pace for the other runners.

14. Step up to the plate

Meaning: Take responsibility or initiative.

Example: It’s time to step up to the plate and lead.

15. Clear the hurdle

Meaning: Overcome a challenge.

Example: We cleared the hurdle with great teamwork.

16. Move the goalposts

Meaning: Change the rules or objectives.

Example: He moved the goalposts at the last minute.

17. On target

Meaning: Proceeding correctly, making expected progress.

Example: Our results are on target this quarter.

18. Reach for the stars

Meaning: Aim for ambitious goals.

Example: Always reach for the stars in your career.

19. Ahead of the game

Meaning: Being in an advantageous position.

Example: She’s ahead of the game in technology.

20. Play hardball

Meaning: Be aggressive in pursuit of one’s goals.

Example: They play hardball in negotiations.

GOAL Idioms