Point of no return

Meaning

A stage after which reversal is impossible.

Usage

Used for irreversible decisions or deadlines.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Aviation term when a plane no longer has enough fuel to go back.

Adopted from early 20th-century flight terminology.