[take] the flank
1
to position oneself or others on the side of a group for protection or a strategic advantage, typically in a military context
- During the sports game, they took the flank positions to outmaneuver the opposing team.
- In the military operation, the soldiers took the flank to provide cover for the main force.
- The experienced hikers knew to take the flank while navigating through the challenging terrain.
- The security team took the flank positions to secure the perimeter of the event.
- In the battle, the skilled archers were instructed to take the flank, ensuring the army's defenses from the side.