double-edged sword

USAGE SUMMARY

'double-edged sword' is a commonly used phrase in written English and it means a situation or thing that has beneficial and detrimental aspects at the same time.
Example sentence: Working from home has some benefits, but it can also be a double-edged sword since it can be difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Short double-edged sword.

Cornell University

"It's a double-edged sword.

The New York Times

"That's a double-edged sword.

The Guardian - Music

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

Global connectivity is a double-edged sword.

Harvard University

Legal Clarity Is a Double-Edged Sword.

Columbia University

But reassurance is a double-edged sword.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Brand extension is a double-edged sword.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the context makes it clear which aspects are the 'edges' of the sword – what are the benefits and what are the liabilities?

Common error

Avoid using "double-edged sword" if the situation only has one clear outcome or effect. The phrase implies a balance of positive and negative consequences; if one outweighs the other, a different expression might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "double-edged sword" functions as a noun phrase or adjectival phrase when modifying another noun. It is typically used to describe a situation, action, or object that possesses both beneficial and detrimental qualities. Ludwig confirms its appropriate use and common acceptance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The expression "double-edged sword" is a versatile idiom used to describe something with both advantages and disadvantages. It is deemed grammatically correct and very common, appearing frequently in diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. As Ludwig confirms, its purpose is to highlight the potential risks associated with seemingly beneficial situations. While there are numerous alternatives, such as "mixed blessing" or "cut both ways", it's important to use this phrase when the benefits and drawbacks are truly balanced, avoiding overuse to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

double-edged

A shortened version of the original phrase, maintaining the core meaning.

mixed blessing

Emphasizes the contradictory nature of the situation, where something seemingly positive also brings negative consequences.

a blessing and a curse

More common variant of 'boon and bane' that highlights the contradictory effect of a situation.

cut both ways

Highlights the potential for an action or situation to have unintended and negative repercussions.

two-sided coin

Uses a different metaphor to represent the presence of both positive and negative aspects.

has pros and cons

A straightforward and less metaphorical way of saying that something has both advantages and disadvantages.

boon and bane

Uses archaic language to express the simultaneous presence of a benefit (boon) and a curse (bane).

bittersweet

Emphasizes the combination of happiness and sadness or pain associated with something.

having its ups and downs

Focuses on the fluctuating nature of the situation, with periods of success and periods of difficulty.

a Faustian bargain

Suggests a deal where short-term gains are achieved at the expense of long-term consequences or moral compromise.

FAQs

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

You can use "double-edged sword" to describe situations or technologies that have both benefits and drawbacks. For example: "Social media is a "double-edged sword", connecting people globally but also facilitating the spread of misinformation."

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

You can use alternatives like "mixed blessing", "two-sided coin", or "has pros and cons" depending on the context.

Is "double-edged sword" a cliché?

While "double-edged sword" is a common idiom, it's not necessarily a cliché if used appropriately. Its effectiveness depends on the context and whether it adds meaningful insight. Overusing it, however, can diminish its impact. Consider alternative phrases like "cut both ways" to avoid repetition.

What's the origin of the phrase "double-edged sword"?

The phrase "double-edged sword" refers to a sword that is sharpened on both sides of the blade. This makes the sword more dangerous, as it can cut in either direction but it requires increased skill to use. The metaphor of the sword has been used for centuries to describe a situation with both advantages and disadvantages.