Definition
To destroy one's path, connections, reputation, opportunities, etc., particularly intentionally.
Origins
Originally in military sense of intentionally cutting off one's own retreat (burning a bridge one has crossed) to commit oneself to a course of action, later used primarily to mean “alienate former friends”.
In Context
- "Even if you are dismissed from a job in the worst way, take care not to burn your bridges with unseemly comments on the way out, since you never know who you will meet again."
Also Said As
See Also
- build bridges
- burn one's boats
- point of no return