double-edged sword

noun

: something that has or can have both favorable and unfavorable consequences

This much freedom of expression and opinion can be a double-edged sword.—

Linda Connors

Examples of double-edged sword in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

And then there is the election that has turned some of Janey’s former allies into her competitors and the mayor’s office into a coveted but double-edged sword. —

BostonGlobe.com, 26 Aug. 2021 But the bountiful precipitation has also been a double-edged sword, creating a political challenge for negotiators trying to agree on painful cuts, according to analysts following the talks. —

Joshua Partlow, Anchorage Daily News, 1 Feb. 2023 As Damian explains, ambition can be a double-edged sword. —

Gen Handley, SPIN, 27 Jan. 2023 This is essential for any organization, small or large, as experience can often be a double-edged sword. —

Expert Panel®, Forbes, 27 Jan. 2023 See all Example Sentences for double-edged sword

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of double-edged sword was in the 15th century

See more words from the same century

Cite this Entry

Style

“Double-edged sword.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/double-edged%20sword. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

Copy Citation