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

For churches, it may prove to be a double-edged sword.

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But it’s a double-edged sword, Brown said, because the heavy presence of those companies in the state is also why they’ve lobbied so hard against the legislation.

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“It’s a double-edged sword. If you are passionate about the class, you get to learn more in a semester, but if you just want it to be over, then it’s only 10 weeks.”

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Social media can act as a double-edged sword for contestants.

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“It’s a double-edged sword, like I don’t know if it’s good that so many people relate to it but I’m glad that it’s there.”

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Related Words

• arrogant 
• caustic 
• incongruous 
• mocking 
• paradoxical 
• ridiculous 
• sardonic 
• satiric www.thesaurus.com
• satirical 
• twisted 
• unexpected 
• wry