Burn one's bridges meaning

To "burn one's bridges" means to irrevocably cut off all possibilities for return or retreat.


Burn one's bridges definitions

Word backwards nrub s'eno segdirb
Part of speech The part of speech of the phrase "burn one's bridges" is a verb phrase.
Syllabic division burn one's bridges syllable separation: burn / one's / bridg-es
Plural The plural of "burn one's bridges" is "burning one's bridges."
Total letters 15
Vogais (4) u,o,e,i
Consonants (6) b,r,n,s,d,g

Burn One's Bridges

Definition of Burning Bridges

To "burn one's bridges" is a common idiom that refers to cutting off all communication or possibilities of returning to a past situation. It implies making a decision or taking an action that is irreversible and can sever ties with people or opportunities.

Origin of the Saying

The origin of this saying can be traced back to the military strategy of burning bridges behind an advancing army to prevent retreat. In a figurative sense, burning bridges is applied to personal or professional situations where one intentionally severs connections with others.

Consequences of Burning Bridges

When someone chooses to burn their bridges, it can lead to negative consequences such as isolation, regret, and missed opportunities. By cutting off relationships or opportunities, individuals may find themselves in a position of no return, with limited options for reconciliation.

Alternatives to Burning Bridges

Instead of burning bridges, it is often advisable to handle situations with care and consider the long-term implications of one's actions. Effective communication, conflict resolution, and maintaining professional relationships can help prevent the need to burn bridges in the first place.

In conclusion, the idiom "burning bridges" serves as a reminder of the importance of considering the consequences of our actions and decisions. While it may be tempting to cut ties or sever relationships in the heat of the moment, taking a more mindful and strategic approach can lead to better outcomes in the long run.


Burn one's bridges Examples

  1. After I quit my job and told off my boss, I definitely burned my bridges at that company.
  2. Make sure not to burn your bridges with people in your industry, as you never know when you might need a favor.
  3. She decided to burn her bridges with her ex-boyfriend by unfriending him on all social media platforms.
  4. By leaving a rude farewell message on the group chat, he effectively burned his bridges with his former friends.
  5. It's important to maintain good relationships with colleagues and clients so you don't accidentally burn any bridges.
  6. He regrets burning his bridges with his old bandmates, now that he wants to start a new music project.
  7. She was sure to burn her bridges by storming out of the meeting and slamming the door behind her.
  8. Even though the job offer seemed good at the time, she didn't want to burn her bridges with her current employer.
  9. After constantly bickering and arguing, the siblings finally burned their bridges and stopped speaking to each other.
  10. He didn't realize he was burning his bridges by constantly being late and missing deadlines at work.


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  • Updated 18/06/2024 - 21:30:23