What does 'this is not an angle used by so-and-so' mean?

Answer 1

When trying to solve a problem, a person can look at the problem from many different angles. Figuratively, your angle is your perspective. Sailing ships have a "crows nest" high up on the mast. From this position the sailor has a different perspective of the horizon because he sees it from a different angle than a sailor on the deck.

Your angle is the way you "see" a problem.

Problem: a burning candle needs to be put out.

Solution-1: I may lick my fingers and pinch the wick, extinguishing the flame.

Solution-2: My wife may blow the flame out with a quick breath of air.

Solution-3: The fireman may douse the flame with his fire hose.

The fireman is thinking about extinguishing the flame with his hose. This is not an angle used by my wife to extinguish a flame.