上屋抽梯 illustration

上屋抽梯

Remove the Ladder After the Enemy Has Climbed to the Roof

Make advance look easy, lure the enemy deep, then cut off their support and withdraw.

Aliases
Remove the Ladder After the Enemy Climbs Up / Allied Stratagems
Domains
stratagem, negotiation, positioning, competition, conflict

Stratagem Name and Original Text

  • Stratagem Name: 上屋抽梯
  • Original Text: 假之以便，唆之使前，断其援应，陷之死地。遇毒，位不当也。
  • Translation: Make advance look easy, lure the enemy deep, then cut off their support and withdraw.

How It Works

  • Concise Definition: Draw them in, then trap them.
  • Explanation: Convenience can be used as bait.

Usage Example

  • Encourage a competitor to commit to a costly campaign, then cut off the support they counted on.
purplefarm.link