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Difficulty: HardIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

When the parliamentary committee found itself deadlocked over the ambiguous clauses of the new tax reform bill, the chairperson decided to cut the Gordian knot by introducing a radical, simplified compromise that bypassed all minor disputes. Which of the following best captures the meaning of the idiomatic expression cut the Gordian knot as used in the sentence above?

  1. Solve a complex problem by taking swift, decisive actionAnswer
  2. B
    Sever a physical binding using sharp tools to release tied objects
  3. C
    Create an unresolvable complication that halts progress indefinitely
  4. D
    Meticulously analyze every intricate detail of a dispute before deciding

Answer

Solve a complex problem by taking swift, decisive action
The idiomatic expression 'cut the Gordian knot' refers to taking prompt, radical, and direct action to resolve a complex, seemingly intractable problem. In the sentence, the chairperson resolves the committee's deadlock by bypassing minor disputes with a simplified compromise.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context
The committee is described as being 'deadlocked over ambiguous clauses', showing a complex, stuck situation.
Contextual clues indicate that an impasse needed resolution.
2
Identify the meaning of the idiom 'cut the Gordian knot'
Originating from classical mythology, the expression means to take bold, drastic, or direct action to solve a highly complicated problem quickly.
The chairperson bypassed minor disputes with a simplified compromise.
3
Evaluate options against contextual and figurative meaning
The option stating 'Solve a complex problem by taking swift, decisive action' correctly matches this figurative meaning.
All other options either interpret the phrase literally or mistake the outcome of the action.

Key Concept

Interpretation of Idioms in Sentence Context
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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