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Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—D

Double-edged Sword

Literally, a sword which cuts either way; metaphorically, an argument which makes both for and against the person employing it, or which has a double meaning.

“ `Your Delphic sword,' the panther then replied, `Is double-edged, and cuts on either side.' ”Dryden: Hind and Panther, part iii. 191-2.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Double Entendre
Double Dutch
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