Outflanked is spelled as /aʊtˈflæŋkt/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The word is composed of two syllables, with the first syllable pronounced as "owt" and the second syllable pronounced as "flanked." The "ow" sound in the first syllable is pronounced like the sound of "o" in "snow," while the "a" in "flanked" is similar to that of "a" in "cat." The word "outflanked" means to go around or bypass an opponent in a military maneuver.
The term "outflanked" refers to a military tactic wherein one force manages to maneuver around the side of an opposing force, thereby gaining a positional advantage. To outflank an opponent typically involves encircling or bypassing them, effectively positioning oneself in a location that offers strategic leverage and control. This maneuver is commonly employed to disrupt an opponent's defensive line or formation, creating a vulnerable flank that can be exploited.
In essence, outflanking involves moving troops or resources past the enemy's main line of defense, often with the intention of attacking from the rear or sides. This maneuver seeks to achieve several advantages, such as the ability to launch surprise attacks, cut off supply lines, isolate pockets of resistance, or force the enemy to retreat or surrender. Outflanking not only exposes an enemy's weakness but also puts them in a disadvantageous position, as they may have to reposition their forces hastily or risk being encircled.
The term "outflanked" can also be used metaphorically outside of military contexts. For instance, in a political or business context, it may signify gaining an advantage over a competitor by adopting strategies or tactics that allow one to seize a more advantageous position, leaving the opponent at a disadvantage. In a figurative sense, it implies shrewdly circumventing an opponent or problem by taking an unexpected approach or exploiting a vulnerability.
The word "outflanked" is derived from two separate words: "out" and "flank".
The word "out" originated from the Old English word "ūt", which meant "outside" or "exceeding". Over time, it evolved into "out", retaining its meaning of being on the outside or beyond something.
The word "flank" originated from the Old French word "flanc", which referred to the side of a body, such as the human torso. It eventually entered the English language and came to designate the sides of an army formation.
When the two words are combined, "outflanked" refers to a military tactic in which a force moves around or attacks an enemy from the side, thus circumventing their defenses and gaining a strategic advantage. This term is commonly used in military contexts to describe such maneuvers.