far post: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "far post" originated in the realm of soccer. It refers to a strategic play where the ball is shot or placed towards the goalpost furthest away from the player. This position is considered the most difficult for the opposing team's goalkeeper to reach. "Far post" is primarily used in British English, where soccer, or football, holds cultural importance.

The etymology of this idiom can be traced back to the early origins of soccer in the United Kingdom. The term "post" refers to the goalposts, made of metal or wood, placed at either end of the soccer field. "Far" denotes the goalpost farthest away from the player attempting to score. This expression falls within the category of idiomatic expressions commonly used in sports, where the figurative meaning is derived from the literal action or strategy involved in the game.

When used figuratively, "far post" conveys the idea of aiming for a distant target or pursuing a long-term goal with perseverance and determination. It implies a calculated move that considers the challenges and risks involved. By targeting the far post, the player seeks to exploit a potential weakness in the defense, increasing the odds of scoring a goal.

Beyond its literal and strategic connotations in soccer, "far post" is also adopted metaphorically in everyday language. It describes a deliberate decision or action aimed at achieving a desired outcome or overcoming obstacles. It suggests a deliberate deviation from the conventional or expected path to maximize success or gain an advantage. The use of "far post" metaphorically conveys the recognition of a vulnerability or opportunity that others may not have seen, and the willingness to take a calculated risk for a favorable outcome.

In the context of idioms related to "far post," one such idiom is "in the post." This phrase is used to describe something that is just about to happen or be completed. It signifies that something is imminent or nearing completion. Just as a ball shot towards the far post is close to reaching the goal, something "in the post" is on the verge of happening.

Another related idiom is "go far." This expression means to achieve great success or make significant progress in a particular endeavor. It conveys the idea of going beyond what is expected or ordinary to reach a high level of accomplishment. "Far post" aligns with this idiom as it represents aiming for a distant goal or target, embodying the determination and perseverance required to go far.

"far and away" is another idiom related to "far post." This phrase is used to describe something that is clearly superior or more advanced compared to others. It indicates a significant difference in quality or performance. Similarly, targeting the far post in soccer signifies aiming for a position that is more challenging for the goalkeeper to defend, increasing the chances of scoring. Both "far and away" and "far post" highlight the concept of exceeding expectations and going beyond what is easily attainable.

The idiom "find the net" is also related to "far post." It is a phrase commonly used in soccer to describe successfully scoring a goal. "Find the net" signifies the act of getting the ball into the goal, hitting the net behind it. In the context of "far post," aiming for the far goalpost increases the likelihood of finding the net and achieving the desired outcome of scoring a goal.

While the idiom "far post" is most commonly associated with soccer in British English, its figurative usage has gradually gained traction in other contexts and forms of media. This idiom's adaptability and resonance arise from its ability to encapsulate the essence of strategic thinking and seizing opportunities. Although rooted in the world of sports, the underlying meaning of "far post" possesses universal applicability, resonating with audiences beyond the boundaries of soccer fields.