"A enemigo que huye, puente de plata."
/ah eh-neh-MEE-goh keh OO-yeh, PWEN-teh deh PLAH-tah/
For a fleeing enemy, a bridge of silver.
💡 Understanding the Quote
"A enemigo que huye, puente de plata."
🎨 Visual Representation
The proverb advises providing a retreating opponent an easy escape to avoid a desperate, final battle.
🔑 Key Words
📖 Context
A traditional Spanish proverb (refrán). While its exact origins are ancient, it is famously attributed to Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, 'El Gran Capitán', a renowned Spanish general of the late 15th and early 16th centuries.
📝 In Action
No sigas atacando a la competencia ahora que se retiran del mercado. A enemigo que huye, puente de plata.
B2Don't keep attacking the competition now that they're pulling out of the market. For a fleeing enemy, a silver bridge.
El entrenador decidió no presionar al final del partido. Sabía que a enemigo que huye, puente de plata, y así evitó una contra peligrosa.
C1The coach decided not to press at the end of the game. He knew to give a fleeing enemy a silver bridge, thus avoiding a dangerous counter-attack.
Déjalo ir. Ya admitió su error y se disculpó. A enemigo que huye, puente de plata.
B2Let it go. He already admitted his mistake and apologized. For a fleeing enemy, a silver bridge.
✍️ About the Author
📜 Historical Context
This proverb is strongly associated with the military genius of Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, known as 'El Gran Capitán' (The Great Captain), during the Italian Wars around the year 1500. His strategy was not just to defeat his enemies, but to do so efficiently. Offering a 'silver bridge'—an attractive, easy escape—ensured the enemy would take it rather than turning around for a final, desperate, and potentially costly battle.
🌍 Cultural Significance
This piece of wisdom is deeply embedded in Spanish-speaking cultures as a guide for strategy. It's applied to all areas of life, from military and political negotiations to business deals and even personal arguments. It represents a pragmatic approach that values a clean victory over total annihilation, prioritizing a smart outcome over emotional satisfaction.
📚 Literary Analysis
The power of the proverb lies in its central metaphor: 'puente de plata' (silver bridge). 'Silver' suggests something valuable, attractive, and honorable. It's not just any escape; it's a golden opportunity for the enemy to retreat without losing all their dignity. This makes the choice to flee logical and easy, which is precisely the goal of the strategist offering the bridge.
⭐ Usage Tips
A Sign of Strength, Not Weakness
Using this proverb shows you're thinking strategically. Offering an opponent an easy way out isn't about being soft; it's about being smart and in control, securing your win with the least possible risk.
Beyond the Battlefield
Apply this wisdom anytime you have a clear advantage. In a debate, once your opponent concedes a point, don't rub it in—let them save face. In a negotiation, once you've secured your key terms, make it easy for the other side to agree.
🔗 Related Quotes
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: A enemigo que huye, puente de plata.
Question 1 of 2
What does the 'puente de plata' metaphorically represent in this proverb?
🏷️ Categories
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this proverb only for military situations?
Not at all. While it likely originated in a military context, its wisdom is universal. It's frequently used in business, politics, sports, and even personal relationships to describe a strategy of de-escalation for a favorable outcome.
Does this mean I should always let my opponents 'win'?
No, it's about securing your own victory in the smartest way possible. The enemy is already 'huyendo' (fleeing), meaning you are already in a winning position. The proverb advises you on how to conclude your win without taking unnecessary risks.