Example: Technology can be a double-edged sword in our daily lives.
Definition
"To be a double-edged sword" means to have both positive and negative consequences or effects. It describes situations or things that can bring benefits but also cause harm or difficulties, as in the example where technology can improve life but also create challenges.
Translations
ser un arma de doble filo
een tweesnijdend zwaard zijn
ser una arma de doble tall
être une arme à double tranchant
ein zweischneidiges Schwert sein
Etymology
The phrase "to be a double-edged sword" originates from the literal double-edged sword, a weapon with two sharp edges that can cut both ways. This metaphor has been used since ancient times to illustrate something that can have two opposing effects, beneficial and harmful simultaneously.
Learn to use this expression actively
"To be a double-edged sword" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C2) - set 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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