空城计
The Empty City Stratagem
When you are genuinely weak, display that weakness in a way that raises suspicion.
Aliases
The Empty Fort Strategy / Defeat Stratagems
Domains
stratagem, negotiation, positioning, competition, conflict
Stratagem Name and Original Text
- Stratagem Name:
空城计 - Original Text:
虚者虚之，疑中生疑；刚柔之际，奇而复奇。 - Translation: When you are genuinely weak, display that weakness in a way that raises suspicion.
How It Works
- Concise Definition: Create hesitation through bold emptiness.
- Explanation: A calm posture makes enemies suspect a hidden trap.
Usage Example
- Respond to pressure with composure and clear signals, causing the opponent to overthink what they cannot see.
