战术

• Pinyin: zhàn shù
• Hanzi breakdown: 战 = 占 (phonetic) + 戈 (weapon); 术 = 木 (wood) + 丶 (dot) or simplified form

Meaning

Tactics; specific methods and techniques used to achieve immediate objectives, especially in military or competitive contexts.

Refers to the practical execution of plans at the operational level. Distinguished from 战略 (strategy) which is more long-term and big-picture. Used in military, sports, business, and gaming contexts. Focuses on how to win specific engagements rather than overall wars.

Examples

1. 教练在中场休息时调整了球队的战术，下半场表现明显好转。 The coach adjusted the team's tactics during halftime, and their performance improved noticeably in the second half.
2. 这支特种部队采用了灵活多变的战术，成功完成了任务。 This special forces unit employed flexible and varied tactics, successfully completing the mission.
3. 在商业谈判中，掌握一些心理战术是很有帮助的。 In business negotiations, mastering some psychological tactics is very helpful.

Usage Guide

Context: military, sports, business

Tone: professional

Do Say

• 他们用了什么战术赢得比赛？(What tactics did they use to win the game?)
• 战术执行得当是取胜的关键。(Proper execution of tactics is the key to victory.)

Don't Say

• 我有一个吃火锅的战术。(Too casual — use 技巧 or 方法 for everyday things)

Origin & History

Compound of 战 (war, battle) and 术 (technique, method). Originally a military term referring to the art of conducting battles.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal