burning bridges

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

to destroy one's relationships, opportunities, or means of retreat through reckless, hostile, or undiplomatic actions, leaving no possibility of returning to a former position or re-establishing a former connection; the phrase derives from the military tactic of burning the bridges behind an advancing army to prevent retreat and demonstrate total commitment to attack, but in civilian usage it carries predominantly negative connotations of self-defeating impulsiveness; burning bridges in professional contexts means leaving a job or organisation in a way that creates lasting animosity; in personal relationships it means ending connections so badly that reconciliation is impossible; the phrase warns against actions taken in anger or arrogance that sacrifice long-term relationships for short-term satisfaction