Strategy

/ˈstrætədʒi/ noun

Definition

A careful plan or method for achieving a major goal, especially in war, business, or games.

Etymology

From Greek “strategia,” meaning the art of the general, from “strategos” (army leader). It moved from battlefield planning to any kind of long‑range planning.

Kelly Says

Strategy is choosing what not to do as much as what to do—saying no to good options to focus on the best one. Tactics win battles; strategy wins wars, projects, and even school years.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Like 'strategic,' 'strategy' has been tied to domains historically dominated by men—warfare, high finance, and executive leadership. This history contributed to underestimating women’s strategic work in politics, community organizing, and household economies.

Inclusive Usage

Use 'strategy' broadly for planning in any domain and avoid implying that strategic capacity is linked to gender.

Inclusive Alternatives

["plan","approach","long-term plan"]

Empowerment Note

Women organizers and thinkers have developed influential strategies in labor movements, suffrage campaigns, civil rights, and digital activism, often without equal credit.

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