- To destroy relationships, connections, or opportunities in a way that makes it impossible or very difficult to go back or repair them.
Explanation
Origin
- Comes from military strategy, specifically the act of an army burning a bridge after crossing it.
- This action prevents the enemy from following but also prevents the army itself from retreating over that bridge.
- Metaphorically, it means taking an action (like quitting a job angrily, having a huge fight) that permanently damages a relationship or cuts off a path or option.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Screw things up (with someone/a place)
- Mess things up permanently
- Tell someone where to shove it (often the action that burns the bridge)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Fuck things up (with someone/a place)
- Totally torch that relationship/opportunity.
Milder:
- Damage a relationship
- End things on a bad note
- Create bad blood
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most informal and semi-formal contexts, including professional discussions about career moves or relationship management.
- The act itself (burning bridges) is often unprofessional, but discussing the concept is generally fine.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might initially picture a literal fire. The key is understanding it means irreparable damage to relationships or opportunities.
Examples
- Don't burn bridges when you leave your job; you might need a reference later.
- He burned his bridges with his family after that terrible argument.
- She regretted burning bridges with her former mentor.
Dialogue
Liam: I'm so angry I just want to tell my boss exactly what I think of him when I quit!
Chloe: I understand you're upset, but don't burn bridges. The industry is smaller than you think.
Liam: Yeah, you're probably right. I should just keep it professional.
Chloe: Definitely the smarter move long-term.
Social Media Examples
- LinkedIn Post: Career Tip: Always resign gracefully. You never know when you'll cross paths with former colleagues or managers again. Don't burn bridges! #careeradvice #networking
- Tweet: He really burned bridges with that angry rant online. Doubt any company in that field will hire him now. #PRdisaster
- Forum Comment: Thinking of telling my landlord off when I move out... but maybe I shouldn't burn bridges in case I need a reference for my next rental?
Response Patterns
- Agreement/Caution: Yeah, that's usually a bad idea. / You're right, it's best to leave on good terms.
- Question: Why? What did they do? / Do you think they can ever fix it?
- Sharing Experience: I learned that the hard way.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone warns against burning bridges:
- Ask for context: Why do you say that? Is there a specific situation you're thinking of?
- Agree and state intention: You're right. I'll make sure to handle my resignation professionally.
After someone says they (or someone else) burned bridges:
- Ask for details: What happened exactly? or Who did they burn bridges with?
- Express sympathy or judgment: That's a shame. or Well, they probably deserved it after what they did.
Conversation Starter
- No. Typically used as advice or to describe a specific negative outcome.
Intonation
- Stress usually falls on burn and bridges.
- Often said with a cautionary or regretful tone. Don't BURN BRIDGes.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.