Phrase guide

set the bar

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To set specific standards or expectations.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • to set the bar high; to set the bar low
  • She set the bar at an hour of exercise a day.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: put the bar

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.

Across languages

Translations

5 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Finnish: asettaa rima — Translations
  • French: placer la barre — Translations
  • French: mettre la barre — Translations
  • Polish: ustawiać poprzeczkę — Translations
  • Polish: ustawić poprzeczkę — Translations