Core Definition
核心释义Deceive the opponent by creating an illusion of normalcy. When something is done repeatedly, it becomes familiar and raises no suspicion.
Historical Origin
历史典故The Classic Story
Emperor Taizong of Tang refused to cross the sea to campaign against Goguryeo due to fear. General Xue Renguo secretly built a magnificent hall on a ship and invited the Emperor to a feast in what appeared to be a grand mansion. The Emperor enjoyed the feast, and only when he heard the waves did he realize he was already at sea — too late to turn back.
Modern Applications
现代应用- Hiding competitive advantages until the right moment in business
- Using routine meetings to introduce radical changes gradually
- Masking strategic pivots behind familiar business operations
- Presenting innovative ideas in familiar frameworks to reduce resistance
Supplementary Case Studies
补充案例分析Apple iPhone Launch (2007)
While publicly maintaining its image as a computer company, Apple secretly developed the iPhone under "Project Purple." Regular iPod and MacBook updates created business-as-usual that masked the revolutionary work. Competitors Nokia and BlackBerry had virtually no advance warning.
D-Day Deception (1944)
The Allies created an entire phantom army group (FUSAG) under General Patton to convince Germany the invasion would target Pas-de-Calais. Inflatable tanks, fake radio traffic, and double agents maintained the illusion. The real invasion at Normandy achieved near-complete surprise.