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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about setting a higher standard—and notice when a new expectation may put unfair pressure on others.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptTo raise the bar is to set a higher standard, goal, or expectation. The episode connects the expression to high-jump and pole-vault events, where a bar is raised to make the next attempt more demanding. It also shows the phrase in work and social situations, where a high standard may inspire people or create pressure.
Cultural note: The expression can praise improved work, but raising expectations may also make a situation harder for everyone. When discussing a team, distinguish a fair shared goal from pressure that rewards overwork or makes one person’s unusually high effort the new minimum.
Keep exploringOne teammate’s excellent work inspires the group to improve. Another person’s late nights quietly become an expectation for everyone. How can “raise the bar” describe both progress and pressure?
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe an improvement that changes what people consider good work.
Meaning
Set a higher standard or increase expectations.
Tone & use
Often positive when someone improves quality or performance. It can also imply added pressure or a harder target.
Example
“The updated safety checklist raised the bar for every contractor on the project.”
Talk about expectations in sports, study, work, or a shared project.
Meaning
Establish a demanding standard that others are expected to meet.
Tone & use
Often used for a goal, role, or organization. “Set” establishes the standard; “raise” increases one that already exists.
Example
“The first speaker set a high bar with a clear, well-supported presentation.”
Meaning
Reach the level of quality or performance that is required.
Tone & use
A neutral phrase for describing a requirement. It does not imply that the standard has increased.
Example
“The revised report meets the standard without requiring the team to work through the night.”
Consider who benefits and who bears the cost of higher expectations.
Meaning
Make people expect a stronger result or a higher level of performance.
Tone & use
A direct, plain-language alternative. Specify whose expectations are changing when fairness or workload matters.
Example
“The new service raised customers’ expectations for response times.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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