magic bullet
A simple remedy for a difficult or complex problem, especially a cure for a disease.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“There is no magic bullet for losing weight quickly.”
“You cannot expect a magic bullet to solve all your relationship problems.”
“Drinking green tea is healthy, but it is not a magic bullet for fitness.”
“Many people hope for a magic bullet to fix the economy, but the reality is much more complicated.”
“The manager warned the team that hiring a new designer is not a magic bullet for their low sales numbers.”
“Educators agree that technology is helpful, but it is not a magic bullet that can replace good teaching.”
“While researchers continue to search for a magic bullet to cure the disease, they must rely on a combination of treatments to manage symptoms.”
The term is a calque of the German Zauberkugel, coined by the physician Paul Ehrlich. Ehrlich intended the phrase as an allusion to the opera Der Freischütz, in which a marksman makes a pact with the devil to obtain seven magical bullets that never miss their mark. It is often compared to the silver bullet of werewolf lore.
- 01
bite the bullet
To accept a negative aspect of a situation in order to proceed.
- 02
dodge a bullet
To have a narrow escape; to avoid injury, disaster, or some other undesirable situation.
- 03
get the bullet
To be fired from one's employment.
- 04
magic asterisk
an unspecified future budget cut, especially an imaginary cut.
- 05
magic box
Television.
- 06
magic touch
An ability or skill to produce highly favorable results in an impressive way.
- 07
number one with a bullet
Superlative; impossible to beat.
- 08
put a band-aid on a bullet wound
To inadequately treat a serious situation.
Last updated August 10, 2026