divide and conquer

1. Also,. Win by getting one's opponents to fight among themselves. For example, Divide and conquer was once a very successful policy in sub-Saharan Africa. This expression is a translation of the Latin maxim, Divide et impera (“divide and rule”), and began to appear in English about 1600.

Example Sentences

He demonstrated anew his eagerness to divide and conquer and, with swagger, put the bully into bully pulpit.

From Los Angeles Times

Harris said while some use fear to divide and conquer, the animals demonstrated the power of standing together.

From Los Angeles Times

"Donald Trump thinks he can weaken us to divide and conquer," Carney made clear.

From Salon

He and his wife decided they would “divide and conquer.”

From Los Angeles Times

A strongman ruler practices the fine political art of divide and conquer, insisting on loyalty at all costs.

From Los Angeles Times