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 stood behind the goalpost, ready to defend the goal. [goalpost: noun]
post
Example
She nailed the sign to the post by the side of the road. [post: noun]
Example
I saw your post on Instagram and left a comment. [post: noun]
Example
He was offered a post at the university after completing his PhD. [post: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Post is a more common word than goalpost in everyday language, as it has a wider range of uses beyond sports. Goalpost is a more specialized term that is primarily used in sports contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between goalpost and post?
Post is a versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation. Goalpost, on the other hand, is more commonly used in informal or sports-related contexts.