double-edged

Meaning

1. adjective Of a blade, such as a sword or knife, sharp on both edges.
2. adjective Beneficial and harmful at the same time; assisting or contributing in one manner while also creating risk or negative consequences.

   Slander is a double-edged weapon: you can hurt the reputation of another but it diminishes your own reputation that you debase yourself so much.

Similar words

ambiguous two-edged ambivalent equivocal two-way dual double twofold twice two-fold