Gordian knot
/ˈɡɔːdɪən
/noun
An extremely difficult or involved problem.However, the overall intent and effect of the play was one of a happy lark through the Gordian knot of contemporary socio-political problems and out to a happy ending....
- It's just that sometimes when the red cloud descends, the instantaneous, irrevocable solution is irresistibly appealing, as Alexander the Great proved by hacking through the Gordian knot.
- Life conditions and life strategies are as tightly entwined as the Gordian knot.
Phrases
cut the Gordian knot
Origin
Mid 16th century: from the legend that Gordius, king of Gordium, tied an intricate knot and prophesied that whoever untied it would become the ruler of Asia. It was cut through with a sword by Alexander the Great.
- northlander
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