outflank

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   to move around the side of an opposing force in order to attack from behind or gain an advantage

   The cavalry crossed the river at night to outflank the defending army.

2. 2
   verb

   figurative: to defeat or gain an advantage over a rival through an unexpected maneuver

   The smaller company tried to outflank its competitors with a cheaper subscription.

Formed from out- + flank. In military use, a flank is the side of a formation, so to outflank an enemy is to pass beyond that side. The figurative sense generalizes this tactical advantage to competition and argument.

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