cut the Gordian knot



cut the Gordian knot

To solve a very challenging or daunting problem decisively. The phrase likely alludes to Gordius, the king of Phrygia, who tied a knot that an oracle proclaimed would only be cut by the future ruler of Asia. Alexander the Great allegedly cut the Gordian knot in one blow. A: "Wait, Matt already solved that impossible equation?" B: "Yes! I have no idea how he did it, but he sure cut the Gordian knot."
See also: cut, Gordian, knot

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Ignatiusig-NAY-shəs (English)Late Roman
Navneet-Indian (Sikh)
Orinthia-Literature
Euphemiayoo-FEM-ee-ə (English)Ancient Greek, English (Archaic)
Yam-Near Eastern Mythology
Juliannejoo-lee-ANEnglish