Chinese Idiom: 出其不意 (Chu Qi Bu Yi)
English Translation: Strike when the opponent least expects
pīn yīn: chū qí bù yì
Idiom Meaning: This idiom refers to executing an action or attack in a manner that is unexpected to the opponent, catching them off guard. Originally used in military contexts, it now broadly signifies doing something surprising or unforeseen.
Historical Source: “The Art of War” (《孙子兵法》), specifically from the chapter titled “The Plan” (《计篇》).
Idiom Story:
In “The Art of War”, Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of strategy and deception in warfare. He states, “Attack where the enemy is unprepared; appear where you are not expected.” This principle highlights that success in military engagements often depends on surprising the enemy and exploiting their lack of readiness.
A historical example of this principle in action can be found in the Three Kingdoms period of China. In 262 AD, during a campaign against the Shu Han kingdom, the Wei general Deng Ai employed this strategy with great success. While the Shu forces, led by Jiang Wei, were fortified and prepared for a prolonged siege at the heavily defended Jieting Pass, Deng Ai executed a daring maneuver.
Deng Ai took his troops on a long, arduous route from Jieting through the remote regions of Yinpings and Fushun, circumventing the heavily defended passes. After traveling over 700 miles through treacherous terrain, he emerged unexpectedly from the rear of the Shu defenses. This surprise attack caught the Shu forces off guard, leading to their defeat. The sudden appearance of Wei troops created chaos and panic among the Shu soldiers, who were unprepared for such an unexpected assault. The Shu army was quickly overwhelmed, and the Wei forces achieved a decisive victory.
This example illustrates how Deng Ai’s use of unexpected tactics – surprising the enemy when they were least prepared—embodies the essence of the idiom “出其不意.”
