scorched-earth policy
A 'scorched-earth policy' is a military tactic with historical roots, often used to deny resources to an enemy by destroying anything of potential value.
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Definition
C1Military
(technical)A tactic where resources such as buildings and crops are destroyed to prevent their use by the enemy.
Example
- The retreating army implemented a scorched-earth policy, leaving nothing behind for the advancing forces.
C1Figurative
(business, political)A drastic approach where actions are taken to cause significant harm to opponents, even at one's own expense.
Example
- The company adopted a scorched-earth policy, making aggressive moves that hurt competitors but also damaged its own prospects.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "scorched-earth policy":