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Difficulty: Very hardIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

Which word correctly completes the idiomatic expression in the context provided below?

Answer:Faced with an intricate web of bureaucratic regulations that had stalled the critical infrastructure development for over a decade, the newly appointed minister resolved to cut the 【Gordian】 knot by issuing an immediate executive decree.

Answer

The word required to complete the idiomatic expression is 'Gordian'.
The idiomatic phrase 'to cut the Gordian knot' signifies taking swift, decisive action to solve a complex and long-standing problem. In the sentence, the minister's action of issuing an executive decree to overcome decade-long delays exemplifies this idiom.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context to determine the intended meaning of taking decisive action to resolve a complex impasse.
The narrative describes bypassing years of bureaucratic delays with a single swift executive decree.
The sentence contextualizes resolving an apparently intractable problem.
2
Identify the standard classical English idiom that fits the structure 'cut the _____ knot'.
The established idiomatic expression is 'to cut the Gordian knot'.
Originating from classical antiquity, 'cutting the Gordian knot' specifically means solving a intricate or difficult problem through bold, direct action.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions - Classical Allusions
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Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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