outflank

Outflank refers to surpassing an opponent by maneuvering to their side or rear rather than meeting them head-on. The term is used in military, strategic, and metaphorical contexts.

In military usage, an outflanking maneuver seeks to move along the side of an enemy's formation to attack from the flank or rear, exploit a weak line, and often disrupt command and control. Successful outflanking can force a withdrawal, encirclement, or collapse of the opposing force. It requires speed, reconnaissance, and secure lines of communication, and is especially effective against concentrated frontal defenses.

In chess and other competitive domains, outflanking describes gaining space or control on the board or in a field by threatening from the side, thereby displacing or neutralizing an opponent's central plans. In business, politics, and sports, the term is used metaphorically to describe strategies that circumvent rivals' primary channels, attract alternative markets, or seize opportunities at the margins.

Originating in military terminology, outflank conveys the idea of moving to a position that makes the enemy’s main line vulnerable from the side, reducing their ability to respond. The effectiveness depends on timing and the ability to maintain the maneuver while keeping lines of supply or communication intact.

See also: flanking, envelopment, maneuver warfare, outflanking maneuver.