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The following is Tung Ying-chieh’s interpretation of the above Taichichuan classic saying as translated by Wu Ta-yeh and Wu Ten Shu-hsien from Tung’s Taichichuan Explained.

Nowadays, most Taichichuan practitioners know the principle of redirecting an opponent’s strength with softness. But if you do not know how to meet emergencies, you still cannot divert attacks from people who practice the hard style.

It is obvious that, if your opponent attacks slowly, you follow softly and redirect. But if your opponent strikes at high speed, you cannot use this method. You should apply the breaking strength of Taichichuan at a correct moment. The breaking strength is similar to a sudden side attack by an ambush in military tactics.

The correct timing is at the moment when your opponent’s hand is moving toward you but before its arrival. Your own hand should cut suddenly at an acute angle before his arm is straightened. To apply this strength skillfully and effectively will require extensive practice.