Language & History: The Gordian Knot

The term Gordian knot is used to refer to an exceedingly complicated problem or deadlock. It comes from a legend associated with Alexander the Great. An intricate knot that had been tied by King Gordius of Phrygia was cut by Alexander the Great with his sword after hearing an oracle promise that whoever could undo it would be the next ruler of Asia. Alexander cut the knot with his sword and applied the oracle to himself. ‘To cut the Gordian knot’ thus signifies drastic action to solve a difficulty.