“A Bridge Too Far” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 15, 2024 by Liam Daniel

A bridge too far is a common idiom used within the English language, but for many people its meaning can be confusing. We are going to take a look at what this term means as well as looking at where it originally came from. We will also look at some examples of how the phrase can be used within a conversation to allow us to further understand its use.

“A Bridge Too Far” Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • The phrase “a bridge too far” refers to a goal or objective that is beyond what is realistically achievable or attainable, often implying that the attempt to reach it may lead to failure or significant consequences.
A Bridge Too Far
A Bridge Too Far – Created by 7ESL

“A Bridge Too Far” Meaning

The phrase “a bridge too far” refers to an attempt that is considered overly ambitious, risky, or ultimately unattainable. It signifies a situation where someone has overreached in their goals or aspirations, often leading to failure or a significant setback.

Examples:

  • “His plan to complete the project in a week was a bridge too far; we need more time to do it properly.”
  • “Attempting to expand the business internationally without proper research was a bridge too far.”

Origin of This Idiomatic Expression

The phrase comes from the title of the book and film “A Bridge Too Far,” which recounts Operation Market Garden during World War II, an Allied military operation aimed at capturing key bridges in the Netherlands to facilitate a swift advance into Germany. The operation ultimately failed, as the Allies attempted to capture a bridge at Arnhem, which proved to be “too far” beyond their reach.

Usage of “A Bridge Too Far”

  • In a business context:

“The proposal to expand into three new markets at once was a bridge too far for the management team.”

  • Talking about personal goals:

“While I appreciate his enthusiasm, trying to run a marathon without proper training was definitely a bridge too far.”

  • In a discussion about project planning:

“The idea of completing the project in just one month is a bridge too far, given the resources we have.”

  • During a debate about political ambitions:

“The politician’s promise to solve all local issues within a year seemed like a bridge too far for many voters.”

Related Terms to “A Bridge Too Far”

  • Overreach – to extend beyond reasonable limits or capabilities, often leading to failure.
  • Bite off more than you can chew – to take on a task that is too large or difficult to manage.
  • Too ambitious – a term used to describe plans or goals that are unrealistic or overly hopeful.
  • Overstepping – exceeding appropriate limits or boundaries in action or ambition.
  • Stretching oneself thin – taking on too many responsibilities or commitments, leading to a lack of focus or effectiveness.
  • Ambitious undertaking – a project or goal that is grand in scope but may be difficult to achieve.
  • Mission impossible – an endeavor that is extremely difficult or unlikely to succeed.
  • Pipe dream – a hope or plan that is unrealistic or fanciful.
  • Fool’s errand – a task that is pointless or unlikely to succeed.
  • Reach for the stars – a phrase that encourages aiming high, but can imply the risk of attempting something beyond reach.

Other Ways to Say “A Bridge Too Far”

As with many sayings, there are other wordings which can be used.

Here are some examples of other things you might say which have the same meaning.

  • Going too far
  • Too ambitious action
  • Taking it too far
  • Too ambitious plan

“A Bridge Too Far” Examples

Examples in Statements

We will now look at some examples of sentences in which the idiom a bridge too far might be seen.

The first is a statement being made in a news report.

  • The protesters continued with their vigil as they genuinely believed that the pay cuts were a bridge too far.

This second example is being made by a teacher.

  • I think that Sam is clever but I think taking the higher exam would be a bridge too far.

Conversation Examples

You are likely to see the term “a bridge too far” being used in various different conversations. Let’s now take a look at some examples of this to see how it might sound.

The first example is a conversation between two parents at their children’s dance school.

  • Person 1: “Lydia is doing really well.”
  • Person 2: “Yes she is, they’re thinking of putting her forward for a role in the ballet.”
  • Person 1: “Really? I don’t think she’s that good, that’s a bridge too far in my opinion.”

The next conversation is one which is taking place between two friends.

  • Person 1: “Are you able to come to my wedding?”
  • Person 2: “Yes, of course. But it’s quite far away isn’t it?”
  • Person 1: “Yes, it’s in Jamaica, you could stay for two weeks and have a holiday.”
  • Person 2: “I’d love too but that’d be a bridge too far for my bank account.”
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