Idioms

Morton's fork

Also found in: Dictionary, Medical, Encyclopedia, Wikipedia.
(redirected from Morton)

Morton's fork

A decision in which either of two outcomes will result in equally unpleasant or unfavorable consequences. Many voters feel like they're facing their own Morton's fork this election, having to choose between two candidates that both have record-low approval ratings.
See also: fork
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

Morton's fork

a situation in which there are two choices or alternatives whose consequences are equally unpleasant.
John Morton ( c .1420–1500 ) was Archbishop of Canterbury and chief minister of Henry VII . Morton's fork was the argument used by him to extract contributions to the royal treasury: the obviously rich must have money and the frugal must have savings, so neither could evade his demands.
See also: fork
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
See also:
References in periodicals archive
Fuller continues to note the nationalist ideology of Oliver Morton when he moved from the Indiana state house to the United States Senate in 1867.
All proceeds support local charities and civic organizations that have a direct impact on Morton Grove and the surrounding community.
Just one day after the inner burial chamber containing the sarcophagus of Tutankhamun was opened, Morton informed his Daily Express readers: "The romantic secret of the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings at Luxor was revealed yesterday when, for the first time in 3,000 years, the inner chamber of the tomb was entered.
After she left, Moore alleges that Morton came to her house and attempted to kill her.
Miss Atkinson went on to ask Mr Morton why it had taken 51 days from the company discussing the idea as part of its business plan, to telling Miss Atkinson being made her job was redundant.
They held conversations referring to meeting up when Morton had finished work at Home Bargains, and to sexual activity.
Throughout that day and the next they held conversations referring to meeting up when Morton had finished work at Home Bargains and to sexual activity.
Judge Simon Bourne-Arton QC said when Morton walked into the dock: "He is drunk."
Prosecutor Bridie Smurthwaite told the court: "He left the machine to get a drink at eight o'clock and when he came back the defendant Michael Morton was playing it.
Peg Morton, arguably Eugene's best-known peace activist, has died at age 85.
Nursing home magnate Michael Morton has long been considered a go-to guy for those looking to raise political campaign money in Arkansas.
Scorers: Ayr – McMillan (37) Curlett (71) Morton – McGraw (31).
Copyright © 2003-2025 Farlex, Inc Disclaimer
All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional.