Bridges

build bridges

to improve relationships between people who are very different or do not like each other. A local charity is working to build bridges between different ethnic groups in the area. (often + between)

See also: build

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build bridges

to increase understanding between different people or groups. They wanted to build bridges and believed that an international conference would be the best way to start that process.

See also: build

burn your bridges

to permanently and unpleasantly end your relationship with a person or organization. Welles had burned his bridges so badly with the movie studios that they laughed when you mentioned his name.

Etymology: based on the military action of burning a bridge you have just crossed to prevent the enemy from crossing it after you

See also: burn