Raise the bar

Meaning

To increase the standards, expectations, or level of difficulty for something. It makes it harder for others to achieve the same success.

Competitive, aspirational

Used in a sentence

• Our previous sales numbers were good, but this year we intend to raise the bar.
• She really raised the bar for dinner parties after serving a five-course meal.
• The latest smartphone model has certainly raised the bar for the entire industry.