double-edged

[ duhb-uhl-ejd ]

adjective

1. having two cutting edges, as a razor blade.
2. capable of acting two ways or having opposite effects:

   a double-edged argument.

double-edged

adjective

1. acting in two ways; having a dual effect

   a double-edged law

2. (of a remark, argument, etc) having two possible interpretations, esp applicable both for and against or being really malicious though apparently innocuous
3. (of a sword, knife, etc) having a cutting edge on either side of the blade

Word History and Origins

Origin of double-edged¹

First recorded in 1545–55

Example Sentences

Stress is a double-edged sword when it comes to memory: stressful or otherwise emotional events are usually more memorable, but stress can also make it harder for us to retrieve memories.

From Science Daily

“But it’s a double-edged sword,” said Meadows, 27, who has lived in South Park since 2019 and sells real estate.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s a double-edged sword. It’s good to have someone who is willing to bring the cases … but that person needs to be able to win the cases,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times

"I think anything like that is a double-edged sword," he adds.

From BBC

So, yeah, it’s a double-edged sword for me.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• arrogant
• caustic
• incongruous
• mocking
• paradoxical
• ridiculous
• sardonic
• satiric
• satirical
• twisted
• unexpected
• wry