"Winning by Surprise" originates from The Art of War: On Energy, where the original text states, "In all battles, one engages the enemy with orthodox forces and wins with extraordinary forces," meaning that in war, one confronts the enemy head-on with conventional troops while using surprise forces to seize victory unexpectedly. Later, it came to refer broadly to defeating opponents in competition, contests, business, negotiations, and other scenarios by employing unexpected strategies or methods. This idiom emphasizes innovation and adaptability and opposes rigid adherence to convention. It carries a positive connotation and is often used to praise someone or a team for their exceptional wisdom and ability to break free from conventional thinking. In usage, it often serves as a predicate or attributive and carries a commendatory meaning, applicable to fields such as military affairs, sports, business warfare, and competitive gaming. Its cultural background reflects the dialectical thinking of ancient Chinese military strategists regarding "the mutual generation of orthodox and extraordinary forces," and also reflects the high regard in Chinese culture for wisdom and strategy.
📝 Example
1. In commercial competition, this small company quickly captured market share with a marketing strategy that won by surprise tactics. (Meaning: achieving victory through unexpected strategies)
2. Facing a formidable opponent, the coach won by surprise tactics, fielding a little-known rookie and ultimately turning the game around. (Meaning: defeating the opponent with an unconventional move)