Chinese Idiom: 出奇制胜 (Chu Qi Zhi Cheng)
English Translation: Win through unconventional means
pīn yīn: chū qí zhì shèng
Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to achieving success or victory by employing methods or strategies that are unexpected or unconventional, surprising the opponent and catching them off guard.
Historical Source: “The Art of War” (《孙子兵法》), specifically from the chapter titled “The Force” (《势篇》).
Idiom Story:
In the “The Art of War”, Sun Tzu writes, “All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when we are able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must appear inactive; when we are near, we must make it appear that we are far away; when far away, we must make it appear that we are near.” This means that the key to success in warfare is to use surprising and unconventional tactics to gain an advantage.
A historical example of this strategy is found in the story of Tian Dan (田单) during the Warring States period of China. In 284 BC, the state of Yan, allied with several other states, had successfully attacked the Qi state, leaving only two cities, Ju and Jimo, under Qi control. The Qi people appointed Tian Dan, a distant relative of the royal family, as the commander to defend Jimo.
Tian Dan used clever tactics to turn the tide. He spread rumors to create fear among the Yan forces and convinced the new Yan king to replace the capable general Le Yi with a less competent leader. Tian Dan also sent emissaries to negotiate surrender with Yan, while secretly preparing a surprise attack.
He gathered over a thousand cattle, dressed them in colorful fabrics, attached sharp blades to their horns, and tied flaming reeds to their tails. During the night, he drove the cattle out of the city toward the Yan army. The sight of these fiery, bizarre creatures caused chaos and panic among the Yan troops, leading to a rout. The Qi soldiers took advantage of the confusion and defeated the Yan forces decisively.
Sima Qian, the author of the “Records of the Grand Historian” (《史记》), which documents this story, remarked, “Warfare relies on combining conventional and unexpected tactics. The best strategists are those who can continually produce surprising tactics.”
This story illustrates how Tian Dan’s innovative and unexpected use of tactics exemplifies the principle of “出奇制胜”, achieving victory through unconventional methods.
