What does “Burn One’s Bridges” mean?
"Burn One's Bridges" means to do something that makes it impossible to go back to a previous situation or relationship, referring to a permanent and irreversible action that cuts off all possibilities of returning to the way things were before.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After quitting his job in a fit of anger, he burned his bridges with his former employer.
Example
She burned her bridges with her childhood friend by betraying their trust.
Example
By refusing to apologize, he burned his bridges with his family and now they no longer speak to him
Is “Burn One’s Bridges” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Burn One’s Bridges” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Burn One’s Bridges” effectively in context?
You can use "Burn One's Bridges" to describe a situation where someone takes an action that permanently severs ties or closes off the possibility of returning to a previous situation or relationship. It emphasizes the finality and irreversibility of the action. For example, if someone quits their job in a fit of anger and says things they can't take back, you might say, 'By quitting like that, he really burned his bridges with the company.'
- 1Career
After quitting his job in a fit of anger, he burned his bridges with his former employer.
- 2Friendship
She burned her bridges with her childhood friend by betraying their trust.
- 3Family
By refusing to apologize, he burned his bridges with his family and now they no longer speak to him.
Similar phrases to “Burn One’s Bridges”:
Sever connections
To completely break off relationships or ties with someone
Example
After the betrayal, she chose to sever connections with her former business partner.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Burn One’s Bridges” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Burn One's Bridges" is believed to come from military tactics. In ancient times, soldiers would burn the bridges behind them after crossing them to prevent retreat and ensure their commitment to the battle. This strategy left them with no option but to move forward and fight.
Is “Burn One’s Bridges” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Burn One's Bridges" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where someone has taken a drastic action that permanently cuts off ties or closes off the possibility of returning to a previous situation or relationship.
What tone does “Burn One’s Bridges” have?
"Burn One's Bridges" conveys a tone of finality and consequence. It suggests that the action taken is significant and has long-lasting effects. It can be used to express disapproval or caution against burning bridges in relationships or important situations.
Can “Burn One’s Bridges” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Burn One's Bridges" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of permanently severing ties or closing off possibilities. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'By betraying their trust, she really burned her bridges with her childhood friend.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'He really burned his bridges!' to imply that someone has taken a drastic and irreversible action.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- sever relationships
- break off ties
- irreparably damage relationships
- cut off all contact
- permanently close off possibilities
Antonyms
- mend fences
- rebuild bridges
- reestablish connections
- reconcile
- restore relationships
