double-edged

American  

[duhb-uhl-ejd] / ˈdʌb əlˈɛdʒd /

adjective

1. having two cutting edges, as a razor blade.

2. capable of acting two ways or having opposite effects.

   a double-edged argument.

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double-edged British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of double-edged

First recorded in 1545–55

Example Sentences

But the electorate appear to be telling Labour at the moment experience is a double-edged sword and the prospect of the new and novel appears alluring to many.

From BBC

But it’s kind of a double-edged sword because politicians cannot fool people repeatedly.

From Salon

Yet Obstfeld says the loopholes in US tariffs are a double-edged sword.

From BBC

The railways could have been a double-edged sword.

From The Wall Street Journal

You have children who will also benefit from an inheritance, so this is the equivalent of a double-edged silver sword with — you’ll be glad to know — relatively blunt edges.

From MarketWatch

Related Words

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