Divide and conquer Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A strategy that involves breaking up a large group or problem into smaller parts to make it easier to control or solve, or to weaken opposition.
Usage & Nuances
Frequently used in politics, business, and history. Formal in some contexts but can be used informally. Often refers to manipulation of group unity for personal gain. Sometimes used positively for problem-solving, but often has a negative, controlling implication.
Example Sentences
Many leaders use divide and conquer strategies to stay in power.
basic
The manager solved the big project with a divide and conquer approach.
basic
Teachers use divide and conquer to handle large groups of students.
basic
The company played its top employees against each other—classic divide and conquer.
natural
If we use divide and conquer, we can break this huge problem into smaller, manageable pieces.
natural
Politicians sometimes rely on divide and conquer to prevent groups from uniting against them.
natural