GORDIAN KNOT, CUT THE

find a quick, bold solution for a perplexing problem: from Greek legend which tells of a knot tied by King Gordius that, according to prophecy, would be undone only by the person who was to rule Asia. Alexander the Great, failing to untie it, cut the knot with his sword. —5th ACC Vol 2 Glossary (Final Approval 7/12/89), Webster's New World Dictionary, Third College Edition and Random House Dictionary Second Edition

find a quick, bold solution for a perplexing problem from Greek legend which tells of a knot tied by King Gordius that, according to prophecy, would be undone only by the person who was to rule Asia. Alexander the Great, failing to untie it, cut the knot with his sword.