When you do battle, even if you are winning, if you…
“When you do battle, even if you are winning, if you continue for a long time it will dull your forces and blunt you edge...If you keep your armies out in the field for a long time, your supplies will be insufficient. Transportation of provisions itself consumes 20 times the amount transported.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Prolonged conflict weakens armies and depletes supplies, making victory harder to sustain.
In simple terms: Long wars drain strength and resources.
Key Takeaway
Avoid extended battles; seek swift, decisive action.
Themes
strategy
logistics
warfare
Mood
cautious
pragmatic
Type
military
tactical
When to use this quote
- campaign planning
- resource management
- troop morale
- logistical support
Key Concepts
resource depletion
attrition
military planning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can leaders balance aggression with sustainability?
- What alternatives exist to a drawn‑out conflict?
A Different Perspective
Prolonged engagements can also erode political support and morale.