double-edged

• Décrit quelque chose qui a à la fois des effets ou des conséquences positifs et négatifs, ou qui peut être compris de deux manières différentes.

Describes something that has both positive and negative effects or consequences.

1. Having two contradictory interpretationsC1formal

   Capable of being understood in two ways, often with opposite or conflicting meanings.

   À double sens

   • His compliment was double-edged, leaving her unsure if he was sincere or sarcastic.
   • The statement was double-edged, praising the effort while criticizing the result.
   • Her double-edged remark could be seen as either a joke or an insult.

   Synonymesambiguousequivocal

2. Having both positive and negative effectsB2formal

   A situation or action that has both beneficial and harmful consequences.

   à double tranchant

   • Social media is a double-edged sword, connecting people but also spreading misinformation.
   • The new policy is double-edged, boosting productivity while increasing stress.
   • Fame can be double-edged, bringing wealth but also loss of privacy.

   Synonymesmixed