Fabian Strategy
Method of getting your way in disputes with your girlfriend by appearing to give into her demands. The Fabian strategy derives it's name from the Roman general Quintus Fabius Maximus. He ran away, rather than engage in battle, he would retreat and retreat until the enemy grew fatigued and eventually made a mistake. Though I abhor it as a military strategy, it is the basis for all successful personal relationships.
My girlfriend wanted to re-paint the hallway so rather than say yes or no, I employed the Fabian Strategy and asked her if her sister had done anything crazy lately. She spent an hour ranting about that and totally forgot to ask me about the paint samples she brought home. She is sleeping peacefully and Fabian (me) has retreated to his den where he is drinking scotch and playing Snood.