tie yourself in knots

tie (oneself) (up) in knots

1. To make oneself confused, anxious, worried, and/or upset, as when trying to make a decision, come up with an idea, or resolve an issue. Now don't go tying yourself in knots over the details of your papers — at this point, all you need is a cohesive outline. We've tied ourselves in up knots this past week trying to decide on who to hire, but I think we've reached a decision.2. To become flustered while attempting to explain something (to someone). Jim's a smart guy, but for some reason he always ties himself up in knots whenever I ask him to explain something on the computer for me.See also: knot, tie

tie yourself in knots

or

tie yourself up in knots

If you tie yourself in knots or tie yourself up in knots, you make yourself confused or anxious, so you are not able to think clearly. The New York Times editorial page tied itself in knots trying to find the correct tone with which to treat the matter. Catherine is tying herself up in knots with worry because nine-year-old Alice has school phobia.See also: knot, tie

tie somebody/yourself (up) in ˈknots

become or make somebody very confused: The interviewer tied the Prime Minister up in knots. He looked a complete fool. ♢ He tied himself up in knots when he tried to explain why he had lipstick on his face.See also: knot, somebody, tie