BURN BRIDGES Meaning and
Definition
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Burn Bridges:
To burn bridges is an idiomatic expression describing the act of severing or damaging relationships, connections, or resources in a way that cannot be easily repaired or restored. This phrase derives from the practice of intentionally setting fire to bridges to hinder pursuers or invaders during warfare, effectively cutting off any chance of retreat. In a figurative sense, burning bridges conveys the irreversible nature of the action and its consequences.
When someone "burns bridges," they are intentionally creating a divide, often by displaying actions or engaging in behaviors that irreparably damage trust or goodwill with others. This can take the form of betraying someone's trust, publicly speaking ill of someone or an organization, or engaging in harmful actions that cannot be easily forgotten or forgiven.
The concept of burning bridges implies a lack of foresight and understanding of the importance of maintaining relationships and connections. By eliminating these connections, the individual effectively limits future opportunities and possibilities for reconciliation, collaboration, or assistance. Burning bridges is often seen as a rash or impulsive act, driven by anger, frustration, or a lack of maturity, that can have severe long-term consequences.
In summary, burning bridges refers to the deliberate and irreversible act of damaging relationships, connections, or resources in a way that is difficult or impossible to restore, resembling the destructive impact of setting fire to a bridge.
Common Misspellings for BURN BRIDGES
- vurn bridges
- nurn bridges
- hurn bridges
- gurn bridges
- byrn bridges
- bhrn bridges
- bjrn bridges
- birn bridges
- b8rn bridges
- b7rn bridges
- buen bridges
- budn bridges
- bufn bridges
- butn bridges
- bu5n bridges
- bu4n bridges
- burb bridges
- burm bridges
- burj bridges
- burh bridges
Etymology of BURN BRIDGES
The phrase "burn bridges" is a figurative expression that originated from the action of burning a bridge, which is a physical structure that connects two landmasses separated by a body of water. The etymology of the phrase can be traced back to ancient times, when conquering armies often destroyed bridges to hinder the enemy's advance or retreat.
Metaphorically, burning bridges is used to represent severing ties or intentionally damaging relationships with people, organizations, or opportunities. It refers to actions or behavior that make it difficult or impossible to return to a previous situation or restore a relationship. By burning the bridge, one eliminates any possibility of crossing back over it.
The phrase has been used consistently since the late 19th century, primarily in a metaphorical sense to describe actions that lead to irreversible consequences, often associated with self-sabotage or impulsive decisions.
Idioms with the word BURN BRIDGES
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burn bridges in front of
To "burn bridges in front of" someone means to destroy relationships or opportunities intentionally while they are watching or aware of what you are doing. This idiom implies a deliberate and harmful action that damages one's reputation or connections.
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burn bridges
To "burn bridges" means to destroy relationships, particularly those that are important or valuable, often through actions that are reckless, hasty, or deliberate. It can result in permanent damage or irreparable harm to those relationships.
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