将计就计

Pronunciation: jiāng jì jiù jì Literal meaning: Use plan follow plan

Origin & Usage

The idiom 将计就计 (jiāng jì jiù jì) is commonly used in classical Chinese literature to describe a strategic maneuver where one uses an opponent's plan against them. The phrase can be broken down into its components: 将 (jiāng, to use), 计 (jì, plan), 就 (jiù, to follow), and 计 (jì, plan). This idiom is often employed in contexts where someone cleverly turns the tables by adopting and adapting the strategies of their adversaries to their own advantage. Although there is no specific historical story associated with this idiom, it vividly illustrates the concept of strategic adaptability and cunning in competitive situations.

Examples

English: "He turned the tables on his opponent by using their own strategy against them."

Chinese: 他用对手的策略反击了他们。