magic bullet

American  

noun

1. something that cures or remedies without causing harmful side effects.

   So far there is no magic bullet for economic woes.

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magic bullet British  

noun

1. informal any therapeutic agent, esp one in the early stages of development, reputed to be very effective in treating a condition, such as a malignant tumour, by specifically targeting the diseased tissue

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Etymology

Origin of magic bullet

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

“There’s no magic bullet to make up for lost time,” said Rob Williams, managing director and head of wealth-management research at Charles Schwab.

From MarketWatch

This is by no means a magic bullet solution to the problem of how to replace fossil fuels with clean energy and use the land in a way that protects nature.

From BBC

It's not a magic bullet, because teams who are looking to see out a lead - or hold on to a draw - could still go slowly to break up the momentum of the opposition.

From BBC

But it also pointed out that weight loss drugs should not be seen as a "magic bullet".

From BBC

Nutritionists, however, have long warned that skipping meals is no magic bullet - and may be risky for those with underlying conditions.

From BBC

Related Words

• panacea
• wonder drug