Strategy & Tactic: English Vocabulary List

used to imply that it is more effective and beneficial to convince or influence someone to do something through reasoning and negotiation, rather than through the use of threats or violence

"Convince, do not threaten."

"He learned that through reasoned argument and gentle encouragement, persuasion is better than force when dealing with difficult people."

used to suggest that a person with experience in a particular activity, even if it is illegal or unethical, may be the most effective at identifying and catching others who engage in that activity

"Only a criminal can catch one."

"The detective realized that to truly understand the criminal's methods, it takes a thief to catch a thief."

used to suggest that instead of taking a difficult or dangerous route, it is better to look for the simplest or most efficient way to reach one's goal

"Find the easiest way."

"When faced with a complex problem, always remember to cross the stream where it is shallowest."

used to imply that it is important to be strategic and patient in pursuing one's goals, and to avoid showing all of one's strengths and weaknesses at once

"Hide your true strength."

"The experienced negotiator understood that a clever hawk hides its claws until the opportune moment arises."

used to suggest that it is unwise to react impulsively or emotionally to insults or provocations, and that it is better to respond calmly and thoughtfully

"Wise people ignore insults."

"She chose to remain silent, remembering that a fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult."

used to imply that taking the initiative and acting decisively can provide a significant advantage in achieving one's goals

"Starting is important."

"By launching the marketing campaign early, they ensured the first blow is half the battle."

used to imply that it may be more advantageous to align with a group or situation that cannot be defeated or overcome in order to gain some benefit or advantage

"Join the winning side."

"Since we couldn't stop the merger, we decided that if you cannot beat them, you might as well join them."

used to advise exercising patience and careful consideration in important matters, while recognizing that some minor tasks can be dealt with quickly

"Only kill fleas fast."

"Take your time with the proposal; remember, nothing must be done hastily but killing of fleas."

used to imply that someone who has experience breaking rules or doing things wrong can be more effective at enforcing those same rules, or teaching others how to do things right

"Former rule-breakers enforce well."

"His understanding of the criminal mind made him realize that an old poacher makes the best gamekeeper."

used to suggest that it is important to be resourceful and proactive in solving problems, and to take action to address issues as they arise

"Fix problems proactively."

"Don't just complain about the broken system; we need to send the helve after the hatchet and fix it."

used to imply that experienced or wise individuals cannot be easily fooled or misled by things of little or no value

"Wise people aren't fooled."

"His elaborate scheme failed because you cannot catch old birds with chaff."

used to imply a gentle and kind response to anger can help calm the situation and prevent it from escalating

"Kind words calm anger."

"When the customer was shouting, she remembered that a soft answer turns away wrath."

used to suggest that it is wise to wait and avoid making significant decisions or taking action until the situation or circumstances have become clearer or more certain

"Wait until May ends."

"Don't make any major investment decisions yet; it's best to wait until May is out."

used to emphasize that being mindful of resource usage and avoiding wastefulness can prevent future scarcity or need

"Don't waste anything."

"By saving leftovers and reusing materials, they lived by the principle that waste not, want not."

used to suggest that one should remain optimistic while being realistic and taking practical steps to prepare for potential negative outcomes or obstacles

"Be optimistic, but ready."

"While we hope for a smooth launch, we must hope for the best and prepare for the worst."

used to emphasize the importance of avoiding disputes or conflicts with customers and maintaining positive customer relations in business

"Always agree with customers."

"Even when the complaint seemed unreasonable, the manager insisted that the customer is always right."

used to advise one to maintain a close relationship with enemies or competitors in order to stay informed about their actions and intentions

"Watch your rivals closely."

"He maintained contact with his rivals, believing it's wise to keep your friends close and your enemies closer."

used to suggest that sometimes it is better to stay silent rather than saying something that could cause harm or lead to unwanted consequences

"Say well or be still."

"When unsure of the impact of your words, it is often wise to say well or be still."

used to imply that there can be an advantage in being cautious and waiting for others to take risks first, as it may lead to less risk and more reward by learning from the mistakes of others

"Wait and see; the second mouse gets the cheese."

"Instead of rushing into the risky venture, they decided to wait and observe, remembering that the second mouse gets the cheese."

used to advise one to help the enemy when they are trying to retreat, as it can make it more difficult for them to continue to fight against one

"Help retreating enemies."

"Offering them a generous exit package was strategic; it is good to make a bridge of gold to a flying enemy."

used to suggest that it is wise to wait and avoid making significant decisions or taking action until the situation or circumstances have become clearer or more certain

"Wait until you are out."

"Don't cast a clout until maybe out of the woods, as premature action could lead to unforeseen problems."