Region: General | Usage example: Even if you leave, don’t burn your bridges with the old team.

Don't burn your bridges

Meaning

Do not sever relationships you might need later.

Common advice when exiting a job or dispute.

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Based on military practice of destroying bridges so enemies cannot follow.

Used in 19th-century military handbooks and still taught as diplomacy guidance.