Synonym request: "paint into a corner"


Could someone please let me know the synonym of "paint someone/somebody into a corner". I don't know any and have to use the idiom all the time, it will be good to know its synonyms.


I generally use this idiom to denote situations where somebody is left with limited options or a hard choice (mainly due to their own behavior/actions) as in:



By insisting on a pay rise, I seem to have painted myself into a corner. I will have to find another job if I don't get the raise.




Answer



It's comparable to "to burn one's bridges" as in



I've burnt all my bridges.



but this idiom has more of a moral aspect to it than yours. Painting oneself into a corner can be done through carelessness, while burning bridges implies will.


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