What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
goalpost
Example
The ball hit the goalpost and bounced back into play. [goalpost: noun]
Example
The goalkeeper dived to save the shot but it hit the goalpost and went in. [goalpost: noun]
goal
Example
The striker scored a goal in the last minute of the game. [goal: noun]
Example
My goal is to learn English fluently by the end of the year. [goal: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Goal is more commonly used than goalpost in everyday language. Goal is a common word used in various contexts, including sports, work, and personal life, while goalpost is specific to sports and games.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between goalpost and goal?
Both goalpost and goal are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.