Burn bridges
The idiom “burn bridges” is a metaphorical expression that refers to intentionally cutting off a relationship or connection with someone or a group of people in a way that makes it challenging or impossible to re-establish that relationship in the future. When someone “burns bridges,” they are essentially destroying the possibility of going back to a previous situation or repairing a damaged relationship.
The imagery of burning bridges comes from the idea that if a bridge is burned, there is no way to cross back over it. This idiom is often used to describe situations where someone acts in a manner that permanently damages trust or closes off opportunities for reconciliation. It signifies a decisive and often irreversible action that severs ties with someone or a group. People may “burn bridges” for various reasons, such as ending a toxic relationship, leaving a job on bad terms, or severing connections with a social circle.