A Bridge Too Far: Meaning and Examples of this Common Idiomatic Phrase • 7ESL

Contents

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

A Bridge Too Far Meaning

The meaning of the term “a bridge too far” refers to a goal or aim which is too ambitious.

Origin of this idiomatic expression

The origin of the idiom “a bridge too far” comes from the second world war when troops had difficulty in physically holding up a bridge without the correct tools, thus the phrase was coined.

“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.”

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

Liam Daniel

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