- 快刀斩乱麻 kuàidāozhǎnluànmá to cut the Gordian knotTo solve a complex problem through quick and decisive action; literally "to cut through a knot of tangled hemp with a sharp knife"
- 快刀斩麻 kuàidāozhǎnmá cut the Gordian knotto settle a complicated matter by taking decisive action; to make a quick decision in a complex situation
- 快刀断乱麻 kuàidāoduànluànmá to cut the Gordian knotA quick sword cuts through tangled hemp; to take decisive action to solve a complex or messy problem.