# burn bridges

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/burn-bridges
Updated: 2026-06-07

## Meaning

Destroy relationships

## Examples

- You should never burn bridges when you leave a job.
- Even though he was angry with his boss, he tried not to burn bridges because he might need a reference later.
- The young professional realized that by acting unprofessionally during the dispute, she had burned bridges with the very people who could have helped her career grow.

## Origin

From the military practice of burning bridges behind an advancing army to make retreat impossible — echoing ancient generals who burned their boats after landing. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.