a double-edged sword

USAGE SUMMARY

"a double-edged sword" is a correct and usable phrase in written English
This phrase is used to refer to a situation that has both pros and cons. For example, "Starting a business can be a double-edged sword; it can bring great success, but there are also great risks involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's a double-edged sword.

The New York Times

The imagination is a double-edged sword.

The New York Times

That could be a double-edged sword.

The New York Times - Arts

Oil can be a double-edged sword.

The Economist

"Yes, it's a double-edged sword.

Independent

"That's a double-edged sword.

The Guardian - Music

"It's a double-edged sword, isn't it?

Independent

"It's a double-edged sword," he said.

The New York Times

It's kind of a double-edged sword".

The New York Times - Sports

"It's a double-edged sword," Fabolous said.

The New York Times

Federer's forehand is a double-edged sword.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a double-edged sword", ensure the context clearly outlines both the beneficial and detrimental aspects of the subject being discussed. This provides a balanced perspective and strengthens the impact of the idiom.

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on either the positive or negative side when using "a double-edged sword". Failing to acknowledge both aspects weakens the phrase's intended meaning and can mislead your audience.

How to use

Learn how to use "a double-edged sword" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a double-edged sword" functions as an idiomatic noun phrase. It is used to describe a situation, action, or object that has both positive and negative consequences, benefits and drawbacks. Ludwig confirms its correct and frequent usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a double-edged sword" is a common and grammatically sound idiom used to describe something with both positive and negative aspects. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and wide applicability across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While similar phrases like "a mixed blessing" or "cuts both ways" can be used as alternatives, understanding the subtle differences in connotation is crucial for precise communication. When employing this phrase, ensure that both the benefits and drawbacks are clearly articulated to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cuts both ways

Indicates that an action or argument can benefit and harm simultaneously.

a double-edged weapon

Similar imagery, but weapon emphasizes potential for harm.

a mixed blessing

Highlights that the positive aspect is tainted by a negative one.

a blessing and a curse

Emphasizes the contrasting nature of the good and bad elements.

a two-sided coin

Suggests two distinct aspects, one positive and one negative, like flipping a coin.

a Pandora's box

Suggests that an action or situation will create many complicated problems as the result of unwise interference or curiosity.

a double bind

Focuses on a situation where any choice leads to negative consequences.

a necessary evil

Implies something negative is unavoidable to achieve a positive outcome.

has its drawbacks

A more general phrase indicating negative aspects exist.

two sides to every story

Implies that there are positive and negative perceptions to a specific event.

FAQs

How to use "a double-edged sword" in a sentence?

Use "a double-edged sword" to describe a situation or thing that has both advantages and disadvantages. For example, "Technology is "a double-edged sword", offering convenience but also posing privacy risks."

What can I say instead of "a double-edged sword"?

You can use alternatives like "a mixed blessing", "cuts both ways", or "has its drawbacks" depending on the specific context.

Is "double edge sword" correct, or should it be "a double-edged sword"?

The correct phrasing is "a double-edged sword". The indefinite article "a" is necessary because it is being used as a noun phrase, and the word 'edged' is also required.

What's the difference between "a double-edged sword" and "a necessary evil"?

"A double-edged sword" implies both positive and negative aspects, while "a necessary evil" suggests something is inherently bad but unavoidable to achieve a desired outcome. The former is about duality; the latter, reluctant acceptance.