- To act in a way that destroys relationships, connections, or future opportunities.
- Makes it impossible to return to a previous position or situation.
Explanation
Origin
- From military strategy: armies burning bridges after crossing to prevent enemy pursuit and own retreat.
- Metaphorically means cutting off your path back.
- Figurative use since the late 19th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Screw things up (with someone/something).
- Poison the well. (To ruin something for everyone, including oneself in the future)
- Shoot yourself in the foot. (To inadvertently harm your own prospects)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Tell someone to fuck off. (An action that definitely burns bridges)
- Shit where you eat. (Vulgar To cause problems in a place you rely on, like work or home)
Milder/Standard:
- Damage a relationship.
- Jeopardize future opportunities.
- Leave on bad terms.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most contexts, informal to formal, as cautionary advice or description.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might take it literally.
- The key is destroying *future* possibilities or relationships related to a *past* or *present* situation.
Examples
- Don't burn your bridges when you leave the company; you might need a reference later.
- He burned his bridges with his family after that terrible argument.
Dialogue
Sam: I'm quitting my job tomorrow, and I'm going to tell my boss exactly what I think of him!
Liz: Whoa, hang on. Are you sure that's wise? Don't burn your bridges. You might need him as a contact someday.
Sam: Maybe... but it would feel so good to let him have it.
Liz: Think about the long term.
Social Media Examples
- Career Advice Blog: Tip for leaving your job: ALWAYS give proper notice and leave on good terms. Don't burn your bridges! #CareerTips #Professionalism
- Rant Tweet: Just told my landlord off. Probably burned that bridge, but it felt necessary. #RentersRights #BadLandlord
- Forum Discussion: Thinking of ghosting this client, but worried about burning bridges in the industry. Thoughts? #FreelanceLife #Dilemma
Response Patterns
- Often used as advice (Don't burn your bridges.).
- Agreement: You're right, I should be careful.
- Disagreement/Justification: I don't care, I never want to go back there anyway!
- Reflection: Hmm, I hadn't thought about it that way.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After advising someone not to burn bridges:
- Suggest ways to leave gracefully: Maybe just send a polite resignation letter?
If someone has already burned bridges:
- Discuss consequences or express regret/criticism.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Usually advice or a description of a past action.
Intonation
- Stress on burn and bridges. Be careful not to BURN your BRIDGES.
- Often said as a warning or cautionary advice.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.