cut the gordian knot star_border
/ˌkʌt ðə ˈɡɔːrdiən nɒt/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "cut the Gordian knot" refers to solving a complex or difficult problem in a bold and decisive manner, often by bypassing or eliminating usual complexities and complications. It is derived from a legend about Alexander the Great, who is said to have sliced through a complicated knot with his sword as a way to solve an intricate problem that no one else could untangle. This act symbolizes direct and effective action in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.
When negotiations failed to resolve the dispute, the CEO decided to cut the Gordian knot by terminating the contract.
Faced with a seemingly unsolvable issue, she chose to cut the Gordian knot and start afresh.
To cut the Gordian knot, the government implemented a radical new policy that bypassed the usual bureaucratic delays.
draw straws star_border
/drɔː strɔːz/ play_circle_filledDrawing straws is a method used to make a random choice among a group, especially when a decision is difficult to make or when it is desired to have an impartial outcome. This practice is often seen in various social and professional situations where a decision needs to be made without bias.
We had to draw straws to see who would go first in the presentation.
They decided to draw straws to determine who would get the last piece of cake.
Whenever there's a tough job that nobody wants, we draw straws to assign it.
flip the coin star_border
/flɪp ðə kɔɪn/ play_circle_filled"Flip the coin" is a phrase used when two or more parties need to make a decision but are unable to choose between options. By flipping a coin, they leave the decision to chance, allowing the outcome of the coin toss (heads or tails) to determine the course of action. This method is often seen as fair and impartial, especially in situations where no option has a distinct advantage over the other.
When we couldn't decide where to eat, we just decided to flip the coin.
They flipped a coin to see who would go first in the game.
Let's flip the coin to resolve this argument.
make up one's mind star_border
/ˈmeɪk ʌp wʌnz ˈmaɪnd/ play_circle_filled"Make up one's mind" is a phrase used to express the act of deciding between alternatives or choices. It involves a process of thinking and concluding which often requires careful consideration. This phrase is commonly used in everyday English to discuss decisions in various contexts, whether trivial or significant.
After hours of deliberation, he finally made up his mind to accept the job offer.
She couldn't make up her mind about where to go for her vacation.
Make up your mind quickly, or the tickets will be sold out!
mull it over star_border
/mʌl ˈoʊvər/ play_circle_filledTo mull over something means to think carefully and for a long period about a decision or a subject. This phrase is often used when someone needs to consider all aspects and implications of a possible decision or when an issue is complex and requires deep thought. It implies a thorough process of contemplation and analysis.
I need to mull over the proposal before making a decision.
She mulled over the problem all night and finally found a solution.
Let's mull over the options and discuss them in our next meeting.
play it by ear star_border
/pleɪ ɪt baɪ ɪr/ play_circle_filled"Play it by ear" is a phrase used to suggest handling things according to the situation without a fixed plan. It comes from the musical practice of playing without sheet music, instead relying on one's hearing and familiarity with the music. This expression is often used in everyday English to indicate flexibility or spontaneity in decision-making.
We haven't decided on a route yet; let's just play it by ear.
Since we don't have a fixed schedule, we'll have to play it by ear.
I'm not sure when I'll arrive, so we'll play it by ear for dinner plans.
sleep on star_border
/ˈsliːp ɑn/ play_circle_filled"Sleep on" is a verb phrase used when someone wants to take time, usually a night, to think about a decision or a problem before responding or deciding. It implies that the person wants to avoid making a hasty decision and prefers to ponder the issue with a clear mind, possibly after a good night's sleep.
I need to sleep on it before I can give you my decision.
She said she would sleep on the job offer and let them know her answer in the morning.
It's a big decision, so I think I'll sleep on it and tell you what I think tomorrow.
take a leap of faith star_border
/teɪk ə lip əv feɪθ/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "take a leap of faith" metaphorically suggests jumping into a situation where the outcome is uncertain, relying on one's faith or trust that it will turn out well. It often involves a significant risk or decision but emphasizes the necessity of trust and hope in the absence of complete evidence or guarantee.
Sometimes, you just have to take a leap of faith and trust that things will work out.
Starting a new business requires you to take a leap of faith and believe in your vision.
He decided to take a leap of faith and move to a new city for a fresh start.
toss up star_border
/ˈtɔs ˌʌp/ play_circle_filledThe phrase "toss up" is used both as a noun and a verb in English. As a verb, it refers to the act of throwing something lightly or casually, often used metaphorically to mean making a decision by chance, such as flipping a coin. As a noun, "toss up" describes a situation where the outcome is uncertain or equally likely to go either way. It is commonly used in contexts where decisions are difficult or when outcomes are unpredictable.
It's a toss up between the two options; both seem equally promising.
We decided to toss up a coin to settle the decision.
The election result is a complete toss up; no one can predict who will win.
Words List
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cut the gordian knot
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draw straws
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flip the coin
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make up one's mind
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mull it over
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play it by ear
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sleep on
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take a leap of faith
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toss up
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