ally with distant states and attack nearby ones; divide and conquer
Meanings
2 senses · 5 examplesidiom
to ally with distant states and attack nearby ones (a diplomatic strategy used by the Qin state during the Warring States period to unify China)
formalOriginally refers to the specific diplomatic and military strategy employed by the Qin state during the Warring States period to weaken other states and achieve unification.
The Qin state adopted the strategy of allying with distant states and attacking nearby ones, ultimately unifying the six states.
"Allying with the distant and attacking the near" was a common diplomatic method during the Warring States period.
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Fan Ju proposed the strategy of allying with distant states and attacking nearby ones to King Zhao of Qin.
idiom
to befriend those who are far away while attacking or dealing harshly with those nearby; a divide-and-conquer strategy in interpersonal relations
Modern extended usage referring to strategies in personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or business, often implying a calculated approach to managing alliances and conflicts.
He uses the strategy of befriending those afar while attacking those near in the company, wooing colleagues from other departments while suppressing competitors close by.
Although this way of handling affairs through "allying with the distant and attacking the near" is effective, it is easy to lose the trust of those around you.