cut the Gordian knot

phrase

: to solve a difficult problem in a very direct way by doing something forceful or extreme

Examples of cut the Gordian knot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One way to cut the Gordian knot would be Ukrainian neutrality. — Armstrong Williams, Orange County Register, 13 Jan. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cut the Gordian knot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cut%20the%20Gordian%20knot. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!