psychological attack; describe a state of mental overwhelm or mortal danger
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb
to attack psychologically; to break down an opponent's will
formalPrimarily used in strategic or psychological warfare contexts. Can describe tactics aimed at demoralizing an enemy.
In ancient warfare, psychological tactics were more effective than direct assault.
Advertising sometimes employs psychological strategies to influence consumer choices.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
The police used a psychological ploy on the suspect and finally got him to tell the truth.
verb
(colloquial) for fury, grief, or poison/fire to overwhelm the mind and endanger life
informalUsed in traditional Chinese medicine and folk descriptions. It describes an extreme emotional or physical state where 'qi' (气) assaults the heart, leading to unconsciousness or mortal danger.
Upon hearing the tragic news, he was overwhelmed by fury and grief and fainted on the spot.
The old traditional Chinese medicine doctor said the toxins from his sores had penetrated deeply, assaulting his heart, which was very dangerous.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
In the novel, the swordsman was poisoned with a potent toxin and ultimately died from the fire poison attacking his heart.