WordGarden.iooutflank
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /aʊtflˈæŋk/
US
- /ˈaʊtˌflæŋk/
Meanings
Verb
to move around the side of an opposing force or position to gain an advantage
to gain an advantage over a rival by using a clever or indirect tactic
Beyond the definition
Imagine two armies facing each other. To outflank the enemy is not about charging straight at their defenses - it is about moving around them, attacking from the side where they are weaker. It means getting ahead of someone by using smart positioning.
This word does not just apply to battles. You can outflank a competitor in business by finding a better way to reach customers. In politics or debate, someone can outflank an opponent by taking a stronger position or by acting before the other side is ready. Think of it as being one step ahead and gaining the upper hand without meeting the other side head-on.
To outflank someone means to go around them in a strategic way in order to gain an advantage. Originally a military term, it describes moving troops so they can attack an enemy from the side or rear, where the enemy is more exposed and less ready to respond. Think of a chess player carefully placing pieces to pressure an opponent from an unexpected direction.
However, outflank is not limited to warfare. It can also be used in business, politics, sports, or debate when someone gains an advantage by avoiding a direct clash and choosing a smarter route. A company might outflank its competitors by serving a market others ignored. A politician might outflank rivals by winning support from voters on an issue they had overlooked.
The key idea is that it is not about direct confrontation, but about clever positioning and smart movement. It suggests planning ahead and seeing where the other side is weak. You do not simply beat them by force; you gain an edge by getting around their strengths.
So, whether on a battlefield or in the boardroom, to outflank is to win an advantage through strategy - by getting around an opponent, staying a step ahead, and putting them in a weaker position.
Examples
- 1
Military tactic
The cavalry tried to outflank the enemy by moving through the forest.
- 2
Business strategy
The company outflanked its rivals by launching a cheaper version first.
- 3
Public criticism
The mayor outflanked her critics with a clear plan to pay for the project.
- 4
Political position
The senator was outflanked on the right by a candidate who promised deeper tax cuts.
- Domainin politics, on the right
from a more conservative position
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- confront
- attack head-on
Used with (collocations)
- outflank the enemy
- outflank a rival
- attempt to outflank
Word family
Explore
- flanking maneuver
- tactical advantage
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- outflankverb
Forms
- outflankedpast tenseverb
- outflanking-ing formverb
- outflanksverb