noun
triangulation
Shaping a political position by combining ideas from opposing sides.
The candidate’s triangulation combined ideas from both major parties.
Etymology
The political metaphor locates a new position in relation to two established sides. It combines selected ideas to claim a third standpoint.
More examples
- Critics said the policy reflected electoral triangulation rather than conviction.
- The adviser recommended triangulation to attract centrist voters.
- His strategy of triangulation frustrated allies on both sides.
Forms
triangulation
Similar words
- centrism
- Centrism favors a middle position; triangulation strategically combines or counters positions from rival sides.
- compromise
- Compromise settles through concessions; political triangulation can be a positioning strategy without an agreement.