qín​zòng

arresting and releasing

擒纵 擒縱 qín​zòng
arresting and releasing
(bound form) to capture and release; (figuratively) to alternate between severity and mercy, or pressure and relief (in strategy, pacing, etc.)
escapement
(mechanics) a mechanism (as in a clock or watch) that controls the motion of the wheelwork by releasing and arresting it at a regular rate