Definition

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Bait

Bait

Bait: BT

Definition

The overt provocation of an opponent through action or information, usually intended to draw an emotional, rather than rational, response. This play typically compels an opponent to move in the direction of the player - like a bull charging a cape - against its better judgment.

Call Out

Call Out

Call Out: CT

Definition

An overt public expression of doubt or concern, usually aimed at a competing person or organization, intended to call into question a flaw in the opponent's position or message set. Call Outs often have a tone of moral authority; they're judgmental and direct.

Where in the World is Hillary?

In Pakistan, Calling Out the Government

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton upped the ante in the important yet increasingly uncomfortable relationship between the United States and its nuclear-armed ally Pakistan.

 
Speaking to a group of newspapers editors, the SoS ran a diplomatic Call Out directed at the government, and in particular, its army and intelligence service: "I find it hard to believe that nobody in your government knows where they are and couldn't get them if they really wanted to. Maybe they are not 'get-at-able'. I don't know."
 
Clinton’s comments – surprisingly candid for the innuendo-steeped language of diplomacy – can be seen in larger context as a Bait to get Pakistan to cooperate more with the U.S.
 
Will Clinton’s right-sided Call Out work, or will it further alienate Pakistanis?
 
Posted by: John Koval
 
Photo Credit: AP