a bridge too far
One step beyond
An undertaking that overreaches—an ambitious step beyond what can be accomplished.
The phrase comes from the 1974 book (and 1977 film) about the failed Allied operation to capture bridges in the Netherlands during World War II.
The last bridge at Arnhem proved impossible to hold.
Now used for any goal that exceeds one's grasp: Expanding into three new markets at once was a bridge too far.
- World War IISecond global military conflict
- hubrisRuinous excessive confidence
- failure analysisStudy of why something broke
- ArnhemDutch city on Rhine
- cost-benefit analysisSystematic comparison of advantages, disadvantages
military logistics · overreach · pushing the envelope · resource allocation · stretch too thin · going out on a limb · risk-taking behavior · leap · point of no return · risk assessment · feasibility studies · best laid plans · fatal flaw · contingency planning · parachute · decision fatigue · folly · impulsivity
a bridge too farlow-hanging fruit
Readily attainable objectives
within reach · safe bet · playing it safe · staying in one's lane · sure thing
a bridge too fardue diligence
Pre-transaction reasonable care
hedge your bets · sound judgment · playing the odds · risk-averse · hedging one's bets
bridge, bridges, bridged, bridging, bridgework, farther, afar