When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporising ground.

Sun Tzu's quote, "When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporising ground," encapsulates a strategic principle relevant in both warfare and contemporary conflict resolution. The essence of this statement lies in the recognition of a stalemate situation, where action from either party might lead to negative consequences, rather than advancements or victories. In military contexts, this idea underscores the importance of patience and strategy. Engaging without clear benefits can lead to significant losses, both in resources and morale. Likewise, in modern scenarios—such as business negotiations, politics, or personal conflicts—this concept implies the value of assessing risk versus reward before taking action. The "temporising ground" suggests a phase where both actors are at an impasse, and any aggressive movement might destabilize their position further. In business, for instance, companies might find themselves in a dispute where both stand to lose from escalating tensions. Here, choosing to wait and seek a compromise can lead to a more favorable resolution. Similarly, in interpersonal relationships, when two parties are entrenched in disagreement, sometimes it is wiser to pause conversations rather than force a confrontation that could cause more harm than good. This strategic hesitance can foster an environment for negotiation and reassessment. When neither side has the upper hand, it opens the door for dialogue and potential alliance-building. Thus, Sun Tzu’s wisdom implores us to recognize the value in patience, strategic waiting, and thoughtful deliberation when the stakes are high and the path forward is unclear, guiding us toward eventual resolution without unnecessary escalation.