English idiom · neutral · spoken & written · BrE & AmE

raise the bar: meaning and examples

raise the bar means set a higher standard.

Memory hook: Build a clear mental picture from “raise the bar” and connect it to this meaning: set a higher standard.

How to use “raise the bar”

Common mistake: Treat “raise the bar” as a fixed expression. Notice its exact word order in the examples.

Learn it in context

This expression belongs to Lesson 7, where you can compare it with other idioms about business and practise it interactively.

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