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double-edged sword

noun
Updated on: 12 May 2018
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Definition of double-edged sword

: 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

See double-edged sword defined for English-language learners

Recent Examples of double-edged sword from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'double-edged sword.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of double-edged sword

15th century

in the meaning defined above

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DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD Defined for English Language Learners

double-edged sword

noun

Definition of double-edged sword for English Language Learners

  • : a sword that has two sharp edges

  • : something that has both good and bad parts or results

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