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burn that bridge when one comes to it

idiom
Meaning

To anticipate dealing with a problem or situation either by acting in a manner that alienates or cuts ties with others, or merely with the expectation of encountering trouble.


Origin

disputed origin

A mixed metaphor combining cross that bridge when one comes to it and burn one's bridges.

Examples
SIMPLE

Don't worry about the argument; burn that bridge when you come to it.

CONTEXTUAL

You are worried about quitting your job, but you should just wait and burn that bridge when you come to it.

COMPLEX

Although the prospect of a confrontation with the board members loomed, he decided to remain silent and burn that bridge when he came to it.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a bridge too far

    A step or action that is too ambitious; an act of overreaching.

  2. 02

    appetite comes with eating

    Starting an activity increases one's desire to continue it.

  3. 03

    as best one can

    In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.

  4. 04

    as far as one knows

    To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.

  5. 05

    back to square one

    Located back at the start, as after a dead end or failure.

  6. 06

    beat as one

    To share the same feelings.

  7. 07

    become one flesh

    To join together in marriage; to develop a unifying bond as a result of marrying.

  8. 08

    bite off more than one can chew

    To try to do too much; to take on or attempt more than one is capable of doing.

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