Divide and rule
phrase
A strategy to stay in power by breaking up larger concentrations of power into pieces that are easier to control.
The autocrat used the strategy of divide and rule to maintain his grip on power.
Often appears as...
- employ divide and rule
- use divide and rule
Usage tips
Academic
phrase
To cause disagreement or discord among people so that they don't unite against something or someone.
The manager's divide and rule tactics have caused issues within the team.
Often appears as...
- succeed with divide and rule
- divide and rule policy
phrase
A strategy to stay in power by breaking up larger concentrations of power into pieces that are easier to control.
The autocrat used the strategy of divide and rule to maintain his grip on power.
Often appears as...
- employ divide and rule
- use divide and rule
Usage tips
Academic
phrase
To cause disagreement or discord among people so that they don't unite against something or someone.
The manager's divide and rule tactics have caused issues within the team.
Often appears as...
- succeed with divide and rule
- divide and rule policy
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Power Dynamics
Understands its use to describe political or organizational tactics for maintaining control.
The CEO's divide and rule approach kept opposition groups weak.
Pro Tip 2/3Historical Application
Recognize its frequent use in historical contexts, like empires managing colonies.
Colonial powers often implemented divide and rule to manage their vast territories.
Pro Tip 3/3Modern Context
Relate to current news stories where leaders manipulate groups to retain power.
The politician's divide and rule method ensures no consensus in the opposition.
Pro Tip 1/3Power Dynamics
Understands its use to describe political or organizational tactics for maintaining control.
The CEO's divide and rule approach kept opposition groups weak.
Pro Tip 2/3Historical Application
Recognize its frequent use in historical contexts, like empires managing colonies.
Colonial powers often implemented divide and rule to manage their vast territories.
Pro Tip 3/3Modern Context
Relate to current news stories where leaders manipulate groups to retain power.
The politician's divide and rule method ensures no consensus in the opposition.
Pro Tip 1/3Power Dynamics
Understands its use to describe political or organizational tactics for maintaining control.
The CEO's divide and rule approach kept opposition groups weak.
Pro Tip 2/3Historical Application
Recognize its frequent use in historical contexts, like empires managing colonies.
Colonial powers often implemented divide and rule to manage their vast territories.
Pro Tip 3/3Modern Context
Relate to current news stories where leaders manipulate groups to retain power.
The politician's divide and rule method ensures no consensus in the opposition.
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