What does “A bridge too far” mean?
"A bridge too far" means that a particular goal or objective is beyond reach or unachievable.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I think winning the lottery is a bridge too far for most people.
Example
Becoming a professional athlete is a bridge too far for someone who has never played sports before.
Example
Expecting everyone to agree on a controversial topic is a bridge too far in today's divided society
Is “A bridge too far” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“A bridge too far” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “A bridge too far” effectively in context?
You can use "A bridge too far" to describe something that is unrealistic or unattainable. It emphasizes the idea that the goal or expectation is beyond what is reasonable or achievable. For example, if someone is hoping to become a professional athlete without any prior experience in sports, you might say, 'I think that's a bridge too far for someone who has never played sports before.'
- 1Dreams and Aspirations
Winning the lottery is a bridge too far for most people.
- 2Career Goals
Becoming a professional athlete is a bridge too far for someone who has never played sports before.
- 3Controversial Topics
Expecting everyone to agree on a controversial topic is a bridge too far in today's divided society.
Similar phrases to “A bridge too far”:
Pie in the sky
Something that is highly optimistic or idealistic but unlikely to happen
Example
His plan to become a millionaire overnight is just pie in the sky.
Pipe dream
An unrealistic or impractical idea or plan
Example
Her dream of becoming a famous actress is nothing more than a pipe dream.
Castles in the air
Impractical or unrealistic fantasies or daydreams
Example
He spends all his time building castles in the air instead of focusing on reality.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “A bridge too far” come from?
The origin of the phrase "A bridge too far" is from the title of a book by Cornelius Ryan, which was later adapted into a movie. The book and movie depict the failed Allied military operation known as Operation Market Garden during World War II. The phrase itself refers to a situation where an objective or goal is beyond reach or unattainable.
Is “A bridge too far” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "A bridge too far" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to express the idea that something is unrealistic or unattainable.
What tone does “A bridge too far” have?
"A bridge too far" conveys a tone of skepticism or realism. It suggests that the goal or expectation being discussed is unlikely to be achieved or realized.
Can “A bridge too far” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "A bridge too far" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of something being unrealistic or unattainable. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I think that's "a bridge too far" for someone who has never played sports before.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That's "a bridge too far"!' to imply that something is unrealistic or unattainable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- unrealistic
- unattainable
- out of reach
- beyond one's grasp
- impossible
Antonyms
- attainable
- achievable
- feasible
- realistic
- within reach
