Be a double-edged sword/weapon

Pro Tip 1/3

Positive and Negative

Emphasize that the phrase highlights the simultaneous good and bad aspects of a situation.

Social media is a double-edged sword; it connects us with friends but also exposes us to cyberbullying.

Pro Tip 2/3

Figure of Speech

Understand it's a metaphor and not about a real sword. It means one thing with two contrary effects.

Flexible work hours are a double-edged sword, offering freedom but sometimes leading to less productivity.

Pro Tip 3/3

Neutral Tone

The phrase itself is not positive or negative, it's neutral, describing the dual nature of something.

Credit cards can be a double-edged sword, convenient yet potentially debt-inducing.