How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Feint

Action | Analysis | Example | Analogy | See also

Action

Move as if to attack, but do not actually attack -- at least where it appears where you are attacking.

Watch the response of the enemy and assess their skill and readiness ti respond. If you do not intend to attack, then do retreat in plenty of time.

When they get used to you feinting, you can dive in closer to wake them up, or even make an actual surprise attack.

Analysis

The feint distracts the enemy, giving you the possibility of attacking elsewhere, especially if key troops break ranks and chase out after the feint.

The feint also keeps the enemy on its toes as you dance around them, always just out of reach. This can frustrate them, tempting a breaking of ranks.

Example

Analogy

In negotiation, appear to be interested in one thing but then back off when the other person starts to negotiate. Repeat this in several directions to confuse them.