- Meaning
- This idiom means to take an irreversible action that cuts off future options or relationships, often by making a bold or reckless decision. It suggests eliminating the possibility of retreat or reconciliation, used in contexts of career changes, conflicts, or commitments with high stakes.
- Origin
- The phrase comes from military strategy, where armies would burn bridges to prevent retreat or pursuit, committing fully to an advance. It appeared in English by the 19th century, with an 1892 *Pall Mall Gazette* article using ‘burn your bridges’ metaphorically. Earlier, a similar phrase, ‘break the bridges,’ was used in 17th-century texts. Its modern use, popularized in American English, reflects decisive or risky actions, as seen in business and personal narratives.
- Variants
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- Burn your bridges
- Burn all your bridges
- Examples
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- By quitting without notice, she burned her bridges with the company.
- He burned all his bridges with his harsh words, leaving no chance for reconciliation.
- Burning your bridges by insulting the client was a risky move.
- She burned her bridges with her old job to pursue her dream career.
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