noun a game or strategy in which one person pretends to be hurt or tired in order to deceive an opponent
verb to engage in a deceptive strategy, especially in a competitive situation
In military tactics, 'play rope-a-dope' can refer to a strategy of feigning weakness or retreat in order to draw the enemy into a trap or expose their vulnerabilities.
In psychology, 'play rope-a-dope' can be used to describe a defense mechanism where someone pretends to be weaker or more vulnerable than they actually are in order to manipulate or deceive others.
In business, 'play rope-a-dope' can be used metaphorically to describe a strategy of appearing passive or vulnerable to lure competitors into a false sense of security before making a strategic move.
In boxing, 'play rope-a-dope' refers to a strategy where a fighter pretends to be trapped against the ropes, absorbing their opponent's punches to tire them out before launching a counterattack.
In a metaphorical sense, a writer may use the term 'play rope-a-dope' to describe the act of strategically engaging with criticism or challenges in order to ultimately come out on top in their work.
A psychologist may use the term 'play rope-a-dope' to refer to a therapeutic technique in which a client is encouraged to withstand difficult emotions or situations in order to build resilience and ultimately overcome them.
In sports, 'play rope-a-dope' is often used to describe a strategy in which an athlete appears to be on the defensive, absorbing their opponent's attacks, only to come back with a strong counteroffensive when the opponent is tired or off guard.