Named source · c. 5th century BCE

The Art of War — Laying Plans Quotes by Sun Tzu: Context & Meanings

1 quotation linked to The Art of War — Laying Plans by or associated with Sun Tzu, with source notes, explanations and related topics.

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Lionel Giles — Translator · Classical Chinese → English

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“All warfare is based on deception.”

Sun Tzu

Meaning & context

Strategy depends partly on managing what an opponent believes about intentions, strength, timing, and position rather than revealing every fact directly.

Source details

The Art of War, Chapter I 'Laying Plans,' section 18, Lionel Giles translation (1910), original scan leaf 62. 'All warfare is based on deception' begins Giles's section 18 before the examples of seeming unable, inactive, near or far. This remains translation-mediated ancient military strategy, not generic business, relationship or current operational advice.

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Translation

Lionel Giles — Translator · Classical Chinese → English

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