Something that is double-edged acts in two ways, often with one negative and one positive effect:
She paid me the double-edged compliment of saying my work was “excellent for a beginner.”
The government’s programme to grow cash crops for export is a double-edged sword because it has created a local food shortage.
Cambridge Dictionary
Page description
Discover how ‘Justice: A Double-Edged Sword’ explores the complexities and potential consequences of justice, highlighting both its benefits and pitfalls.
A double edged sword
plural double–edged swords
Britannica Dictionary definition of DOUBLE–EDGED SWORD
1 : a sword that has two sharp edges
2 : something that has both good and bad parts or results
Freedom of expression can be a double-edged sword.
A double-edged sword/weapon
Something that seems to be good, but that can have a bad effect
Being famous is often a double-edged sword.
Examples from the Corpus
• But the potential financial boost is a double-edged sword.
• It’s been said before that being well-known is a double-edged sword.
• Throughout our history, judicial review has been a double-edged sword.
• The competition rules must be regarded as a double-edged sword by businesses.
• That can be a double-edged sword, commercially and artistically.
From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English
The expression “A double-edged sword” typically refers to a situation or thing that has both positive and negative aspects, or advantages and disadvantages. The key points of this expression can be summarized as follows:
Dual nature: The phrase “double-edged” signifies that the object or situation being referred to has two opposing sides, with each side having its own characteristics, effects, or consequences.
Positive and negative aspects: One edge of the sword may represent a positive or beneficial aspect, while the other edge may represent a negative or detrimental aspect. This implies that the object or situation can have both advantages and disadvantages, and can potentially cut in two different directions.
Ambiguity: The expression connotes ambiguity or uncertainty, as it suggests that the outcome or impact of the object or situation can be unpredictable or difficult to determine. It highlights the complexity or duality of the situation, and the need to carefully consider both sides.
Context-dependent: The meaning of “A double-edged sword” can vary depending on the context in which it is used. It can refer to different situations such as technology, policies, decisions, relationships, or actions, where the positive and negative aspects need to be weighed or balanced.
Cautionary tone: The expression often carries a cautionary tone, warning that something that appears positive or beneficial may also have negative repercussions, or that a decision or action may have unintended consequences. It encourages careful consideration and critical thinking when evaluating a situation that may have two sides to it.
In summary, “A double-edged sword” is an expression that highlights the dual nature, positive and negative aspects, ambiguity, context-dependent meaning, and cautionary tone of a situation or thing. It suggests that careful consideration is needed when dealing with complex and multifaceted situations.
1 Ex-Baltimore Cop Michael Wood Exposes Police Culture Of Corruption & Abuse (Interview w/ Cenk Uygur)
Gepubliceerd op 29 mei 2013
4 Three decades after Rodney King’s beating, police reform in Los Angeles remains elusive
22 jul. 2020
About OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network is the first and only network named for, and inspired by, a single iconic leader. Oprah Winfrey’s heart and creative instincts inform the brand — and the magnetism of the channel.
5 Rodney King Verdict: The Morning After on Today NBC
Back to menu IMPORTANT CONTENT Listening recommended Must
6 Rodney King riots in Los Angeles | Live KABC reports from 25 years ago
Gepubliceerd op 28 apr. 2017
7 Rodney King’s Final Interview | Where Are They Now | Oprah Winfrey Network
Back to menu IMORTANT CONTENT
8 Rodney King / L.A. Riots (1991/1992)
Back to menu
9 – 20 years after L.A. riots, brothers reflect
11 Black Businessman During LA Riots: ‘I Just Don’t See The Point’ | NBC Nightly News
12 Donahue Rodney King Verdict 1992 Pt 1
Gepubliceerd op 17 apr. 2012
13 Donahue Rodney King Verdict 1992 Pt 2
14 Raw Footage of Los Angeles as the 1992 Riots Erupt Throughout the City | From the Archives | NBCLA
14 okt. 2022
15 Photo of police officer consoling teen goes viral
16 Making a Difference – Officer Tim Purdy
17 Raw Footage After the Verdict in the Rodney King Trial | From the Archives | NBCLA
18 Rodney King Police Beating: 30 Years Later | NBCLA
19 Kid Disappears Under Wedding Dress – Just For Laughs Gags
22 jul. 2014