The phrase comes from high jump sports, where setting the bar high means a greater challenge.

Metaphoric Origin

It's not about physical bars. It's about expectations or goals that are set.

Not Literal

In business, 'setting the bar' often refers to the lowest level of acceptable performance.

Companies use this phrase to indicate the qualifications you must have to be considered.

This phrase implies someone has performed so well that it challenges others to do the same.

Used when someone's achievement is seen as a challenge for others to replicate or surpass.

Sometimes the phrase is used to motivate others to aim for a higher level of performance.