plan strategy behind the scenes; mastermind
Meanings
1 sense · 4 examplesverb
to plan strategies in the command tent; to mastermind from behind the scenes
literaryOriginating from the Han Shu description of Zhang Liang, this chengyu describes devising military strategy in the rear headquarters. It now generally refers to strategic planning and decision-making, especially from a position removed from the immediate action. Carries a formal, literary register.
Although he did not go to the front lines, his strategic planning from the rear was equally indispensable.
This coach excels at masterminding strategies and always makes the right tactical adjustments at critical moments.
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In this business competition, whoever can devise strategies from behind the scenes will seize the initiative in the market.
He plans strategies in the command tent and decides victory a thousand miles away—he is a true military genius.