View synonyms for double-edged

double-edged

[ duhb-uhl-ejd ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

adjective

having two cutting edges, as a razor blade.
capable of acting two ways or having opposite effects:
a double-edged argument.

double-edged

acting in two ways; having a dual effect
a double-edged law
(of a remark, argument, etc) having two possible interpretations, esp applicable both for and against or being really malicious though apparently innocuous
(of a sword, knife, etc) having a cutting edge on either side of the blade

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First recorded in 1545–55

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Thanksgiving may be about family, but that comes with an intimidating collection of double-edged swords.

But this public awareness of ED has been a double-edged sword.

As a tool of social activism, plague functions as a double-edged sword.

It's also a double-edged sword that could hurt local Democrats and Republicans alike.

He can wield energy as a weapon now, but it is already proving a double-edged sword.

That afternoon I went back to my orchard, got out my shiny and sharp new double-edged pruning saw, and sawed till both arms ached.

Near by was the guard-house with its grated windows, its iron bars being an appropriate design of double-edged swords and spears.

Father Stanway said it was a double-edged weapon and that those who lived by it risked perishing by it.

But the opportunity was taken to deal a spiteful double-edged thrust at its enemies.

In his belt was stuck a long, double-edged hunting-knife, having its wooden handle neatly bound with black waxed thread.

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