💨 End Run
Definition:
End run: An evasive maneuver or diversionary tactic. Originating from early 1900s football terminology, it describes a play in which the ball carrier runs around the end of the defensive line.
Historical Context:
Initially a staple of the gridiron, this term found its feet outside the sports arena for general use as early as the 20th century. It has been applied extensively in politics, business, and even family dynamics—the art of sidestepping obstacles in ways the formal rules might not expect or prevent.
Similar Terms:
- Workaround: Finding an alternative solution to a complicated problem.
- Bypass: Avoiding an obstacle by finding another way around it.
- Sidestep: Evading an issue or directive by shifting focus or changing the subject.
Antonyms:
- Straightforward Approach: Addressing issues head-on without avoidance.
- Direct Confrontation: Tackling a problem or opponent directly and openly.
Quotable Humor:
“An end run would be a lot easier if life’s obstacles could be offside.” —Anonymous
Proverbs:
- “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” You can find a workaround or end run if you’re determined.
Recommended Reading:
- “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu - Strategies of maneuvering around obstacles.
- “Getting to Yes” by Roger Fisher - Creative negotiation and agreements.
Movies & TV Shows:
- “Ocean’s Eleven” - A cinematic portrayal of big-scale diversionary tactics.
- “House of Cards” - Political maneuvers and procedural gymnastics.
Songs:
- “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele - Unpacking emotional avoidance and confrontation.
### Which phrase best illustrates practices embodying 'end run'?
- [x] Finding a loophole
- [ ] Building a brick wall
- [ ] Walking a straight line
- [ ] Hitting a dead end
> **Explanation:** 'Finding a loophole' perfectly encapsulates the way an 'end run' job is done—circumventing barriers in a less obvious manner.
### True or False: The term ‘end run’ originally comes from basketball.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** The term ‘End Run’ actually originates from football, where it describes a strategy for avoiding the defensive end.
### Which of these activities could be likened to an ‘end run’?
- [x] Dodging table assignments at a dinner
- [ ] Running a marathon
- [ ] Sorting out laundry
- [ ] Conducting a science experiment
> **Explanation:** Dodging table assignments at a dinner exemplifies an 'end run'—evading something you're trying to avoid.
### Which idiom is closest in meaning to ‘end run’?
- [ ] Barking up the wrong tree
- [ ] Pulling your leg
- [ ] Put a sock in it
- [x] Cutting corners
> **Explanation:** Cutting corners closely resembles an 'end run’ because both involve taking less traditional routes to achieve an end goal.
### A cunning end run attempt at work might be seen as:
- [x] Acting swiftly to get approvals through unofficial channels
- [ ] Sticking to official processes diligently
- [ ] Following the protocol with careful consideration
- [ ] Revising the company handbook thoroughly
> **Explanation:** Acting swiftly to get approvals through unofficial channels is a textbook 'end run' maneuver in the workplace.
Stay curious, outsmart predictability, and navigate life’s tackled terrains with a well-phrased end run now and then.
Inspirationally yours, R. W. Roundabout
