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

These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 17 Nov. 2024.

Copy Citation