All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Choose the correct meaning of idiom:

Cut the Gordian knot

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Question Paper (25-Sep-2025) (Shift 3)
The correct answer is

To solve a complex problem decisively

The idiom "cut the Gordian knot" means to solve a difficult, seemingly intractable problem with one bold, decisive action. It alludes to the legend of Alexander the Great, who, unable to untie the impossible Gordian knot, simply sliced through it with his sword.

"To tie up loose ends" is wrong; that means finishing small remaining details, the opposite of one bold stroke.

"To delay resolution" is wrong because the idiom is about acting decisively, not postponing.

"To create a new problem" is wrong; the idiom is about removing a problem, not making one.

Hence, the correct meaning is to solve a complex problem decisively.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    Flash in the pan
  2. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    To bite one's thumb at someone
  3. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    Whistle in the dark
  4. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    Sound and fury
  5. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    Throw one's hat into the ring
  6. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    To be in high dudgeon
  7. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    Mad as a hatter

  8. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    By the skin of one's teeth

  9. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    Eat crow
  10. Choose the correct meaning of idiom:
    To draw the long bow

Important Questions from Idioms and Phrases

  1. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.

  2. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of the given sentence. In case no improvement is needed, select ‘No improvement’.
    Since my friend was not feeling well, she asked me to come over and take care of her.

  3. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in the blank.
    Mala __________ by cheating on the exam to win her bet with Priya.

  4. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
    Where the shoe pinches

  5. What does it imply when people say to ‘read between the lines’?

Need Expert Advice?
Test Series
SSC CGL img
SSC
SSC CGL (Tier I + Tier II) 2026 Mock Test Series - Latest Pattern
1736 Tests 6 Tests Free
1817 Attempts
4.2(846)
English, Hindi

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App