dual-edged sword

A 'dual-edged sword' is often used metaphorically to describe scenarios where both positive and negative consequences are present.

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Definition

B2General

(figurative, common)A situation or thing that has both beneficial and harmful consequences.

Example

  • The new technology is a dual-edged sword; it increases productivity but also leads to job losses.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "dual-edged sword":

two-edged sworddouble-edged swordcut both waystwo swordsflaming swordlive by the sword, die by the swordcross swordstwo sides of the same coinsword drill