“I don't want to burn any bridges.”
You've been offered a new job, but your new boss wants you to start immediately. You think that you need to give at least 3 weeks' notice at your old job. You explain why:
I don't want to burn any bridges.
burn bridges
"Burning bridges" is a metaphor for ruining your relationship with someone.
Think about it this way: if an army crosses a bridge, and then burns the bridge when they're finished crossing, it's impossible for them to cross back over it later.
In the same way, you might think it's OK to make your old bosses and coworkers angry when you leave a job. But one day you might need to ask a favor of them, get a job recommendation, or even get another job at that company again. If you've "burned bridges" with them, they won't help you in the future.
People mostly talk about "burning bridges" when discussing coworkers, professors, business partners, and other professional relationships.
Post a Comment
Reader Comments