What does "to fix the enemy" mean in military terms?

The phrase "to fix the enemy" in military terminology refers to the act of engaging the enemy in such a way that their movement is restricted or inhibited. This allows friendly forces to maintain pressure on the enemy, preventing them from repositioning or escaping. The intent is often to hold the enemy in place, making them vulnerable to follow-on actions by other elements of the force, such as flanking maneuvers or air support.

In a tactical context, fixing the enemy is crucial for maintaining the initiative and can set the stage for a coordinated attack that could lead to a decisive engagement. By limiting the enemy's options, friendly forces can exploit weaknesses and achieve their operational objectives more effectively.

Other options do not encapsulate the core meaning of "fixing" as it specifically pertains to restricting enemy movement rather than engaging in a retreat, destroying resources, or regrouping for a counterattack. Each of those options represents different tactical considerations but does not convey the strategic focus of "fixing" the enemy in terms of engagement.