first strike

• Attaque initiale ou action agressive menée en premier pour prendre l'avantage, souvent dans un contexte militaire, politique ou compétitif, avant que l'adversaire ne puisse agir.

A preemptive attack or initial aggressive action, often used in military, political, or competitive contexts to gain an advantage before an opponent can act.

1. Preemptive military attackC1formal

   A strategy of launching an initial attack against an enemy before they can attack, often used in nuclear warfare contexts.

   première frappe

   • The country's military doctrine includes the option of a first strike.
   • Diplomats are working to prevent a first strike scenario.
   • The debate over first strike capabilities is highly controversial.

2. Initial advantage in competitionB2informal

   The first successful action or point scored in a game or contest, giving an early advantage.

   premier avantage

   • The team's first strike came in the opening minutes of the match.
   • Her first strike in the debate set the tone for the entire discussion.
   • Getting a first strike in negotiations can be a powerful tactic.