The Art of War Quotes

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

When the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak, the result is INSUBORDINATION.

The Art of War

When the officers are too strong and the common soldiers too weak, the result is COLLAPSE.

The Art of War

When your army has crossed the border, you should burn your boats and bridges, in order to make it clear to everybody that you have no hankering after home.

The Art of War

the worst calamities that befall an army arise from hesitation

The Art of War

We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors.

The Art of War

You can ensure the safety of your defense if you only hold positions that cannot be attacked.

The Art of War

There are not more than five primary colors  (blue, yellow,  red, white, and black), yet in combination they produce more hues than can ever been seen.

The Art of War

if you fight with all your might,  there is a chance of life; where as death is certain if you cling to your corner

The Art of War

If we wish to wrest an advantage from the enemy, we must not fix our minds on that alone, but allow for the possibility of the enemy also doing some harm to us, and let this enter as a factor into our calculations.

The Art of War

first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle;  if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured

The Art of War

We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country -- its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps.

The Art of War

Ground on which we can only be saved from destruction by fighting without delay, is desperate ground.

The Art of War

To begin by bluster, but afterwards to take fright at the enemy's numbers, shows a supreme lack of intelligence.

The Art of War

When an invading force crosses a river in its onward march, do not advance to meet it in mid-stream.  It will be best to let half the army get across, and then deliver your attack.

The Art of War

Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

The Art of War

Knowing the enemy enables you to take the offensive, knowing yourself enables you to stand on the defensive.

The Art of War

If his forces are united, separate them.

The Art of War

who does not know the evils of war cannot appreciate its benefits

The Art of War