double-edged

/'dʌbl'edʤd/

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The word "double-edged" is an adjective used to describe something that has two sides, especially when those sides can lead to both positive and negative outcomes. It often means that something can be beneficial but can also cause harm or have negative consequences.

Simple Explanation:

Think of a sword with two sharp edges. It can be used to defend or attack, but it can also hurt the person using it if they're not careful. Similarly, when we say something is "double-edged," it means it can have two opposite effects.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "double-edged" to describe: - Praise or compliments that may also include criticism. - Decisions or actions that may lead to both good and bad results.

Example:

• "The new policy was double-edged; while it helped improve efficiency, it also led to job losses."

Advanced Usage:

In more complex discussions, you might encounter "double-edged" in philosophical or literary contexts, where it can refer to themes or ideas that have conflicting interpretations or implications.

Word Variants:

• Double-edged sword (noun phrase): A common idiom that refers to something that has both positive and negative consequences.
• Double-edgedness (noun): The quality of having two contradictory aspects.

Different Meaning:

In some contexts, "double-edged" can also refer to a situation or comment that can be interpreted in two ways, where one interpretation may be favorable and the other unfavorable.

Synonyms:

• Two-sided
• Contradictory
• Ambivalent

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Double-edged sword is the primary idiom associated with "double-edged."
• There aren't commonly used phrasal verbs specifically tied to "double-edged," but phrases like "weigh the pros and cons" or "look at both sides" can convey a similar idea.

Summary:

"Double-edged" is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts to describe situations, comments, or actions with both positive and negative aspects.

Academic

Adjective

1. capable of being interpreted in two usually contradictory ways
   • double-edged praise