Meaning: To insult, dismiss, or show a lack of appreciation to people who have helped you in the past.

Examples:

My papa always told me to never burn my bridges – you never know when you’ll need someone’s help later on.

Unfortunately, I burned all my bridges after I left that job. Now I can’t get a recommendation.

Even if I don’t like someone, I try not to burn any bridges. Who knows what the future will bring?

Pop Quiz:

Which one is an example of burning one’s bridges?

A.  Receiving several emails from an old boss, but never writing back.

B.  Going out for coffee with a classmate.

C.  Arguing with a store owner about the price of something.

To see the correct answer, click on “Continue reading”:

The correct answer is A. If you don’t respond to someone’s emails, that’s not very considerate – and considering that your boss probably gave you a job in the past, you’re probably burning your bridges. Don’t burn your bridges – or else you’ll have to swim across the river.