Pronunciation: /aʊtˈflæŋk/

Definitions of outflank

verb to go around or bypass an opponent in order to gain a tactical advantage

Example Sentences

A1 The cat tried to outflank the mouse during their game.

A2 The team's strategy was to outflank their opponents by attacking from both sides.

B1 The company was able to outflank their competitors by offering a unique product.

B2 The general planned to outflank the enemy's position in order to gain the upper hand.

C1 The politician was known for his ability to outflank his opponents in debates.

C2 The chess grandmaster used a brilliant move to outflank his opponent and secure victory.

Examples of outflank in a Sentence

formal The general's strategy was to outflank the enemy forces from the south.

informal We can outflank them by taking a shortcut through the woods.

slang Let's outflank those guys by sneaking up behind them.

figurative She always knows how to outflank any obstacles that come her way.

Grammatical Forms of outflank

past tense

outflanked

plural

outflanks

comparative

more outflank

superlative

most outflank

present tense

outflanks

future tense

will outflank

perfect tense

has outflanked

continuous tense

is outflanking

singular

outflank

positive degree

outflank

infinitive

to outflank

gerund

outflanking

participle

outflanking

Origin and Evolution of outflank

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The word 'outflank' originated from military tactics, specifically from the practice of maneuvering to attack the sides of an enemy formation.
Evolution of the word: Over time, 'outflank' has retained its military connotation but has also been adapted to describe strategies in various non-military contexts, such as business or politics, where one seeks to gain an advantage by attacking from a different angle or direction.