Doppelschneidig

Doppelschneidig is a German adjective meaning literally "double-edged." It describes an object or blade that has two cutting edges, and it is used to convey that something can work in two directions or have two opposing effects. In technical or weapon terminology, the more common term for a blade with two edges is zweischneidig; doppelschneidig is still understood but appears less frequently in that context.

In figurative use, doppelschneidig denotes situations, actions, or policies that offer both advantages and drawbacks, or that can produce beneficial and harmful consequences. It is commonly employed in journalism, commentary, and literary prose to signal ambivalence or a dual character of a decision or measure. For example, a policy might be described as doppelschneidig if it promotes growth while risking new problems, or a tactic as doppelschneidig if it threatens both opponents and allies.

Etymologically, the word is formed from the components doppelt (double) and Schneide (edge) with the adjective suffix -ig. It shares a conceptual kinship with zweischneidig, the standard term for a two-edged blade, but doppelschneidig often carries a stronger metaphorical nuance of dual potential or contradictory effects.