Use when dissuading a victorious leader from overextending through further military action. Employs the 'painting feet on a snake' (画蛇添足) analogy to demonstrate that additional gains risk losing everything already achieved, and frames withdrawal as preserving honor.
A method to dissuade further military action by demonstrating that additional gains are impossible while risks are real.
When a victorious general or ruler wants to continue attacking, use an analogy to show that further action offers no benefit but creates danger.
Acknowledge the achievement
Present the analogy
Apply the analogy to the situation
Offer the alternative
"When you are already at the top, you cannot go higher. Any further action can only result in loss."
The target recognizes that continued action is irrational and withdraws while maintaining their position.