Definitions

cut the Gordian knot

VERB

solve a difficult problem

Synonyms

WEAK

clear cut through red tape free get to the bottom of resolve solve unravel unsnarl untangle work out

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Chris Redd, on the other hand, cut the Gordian knot by never going on stage at all, and made his feelings clear on Twitter:

From Slate • Sep. 30, 2018

The impetuous Alexander requires only a few seconds to cut the Gordian knot, but needs much of the movie’s 136 minutes to free himself, if he ever does, from his Oedipal family bonds.

From New York Times • Jul. 28, 2016

Praising Carter for having "cut the Gordian knot," Church declared: "His decision to recognize China finally brings American policy into line with Asian realities."

From Time Magazine Archive

Standing together, Laborites and Liberals could, of course, outvote the Conservatives in the House of Commons, could cut the Gordian knot of India�wisely or unwisely.

From Time Magazine Archive

They tried with impatient fingers to pull out the cork, but as that proved obdurate they cut the Gordian knot by breaking the neck on a stone.

From The School by the Sea by Brazil, Angela