zweischneidig
double-edged
Having two sharp edges and therefore cutting from both sides.
EXAMPLE
Das zweischneidige Schwert war eine gefährliche Waffe.
The double-edged sword was a dangerous weapon.
zweischneidig
double-edged
zweischneidig – zweischneidiger – am zweischneidigsten
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Meanings
zweischneidig
double-edged
Having both advantages and disadvantages, or both a positive and a negative effect. Something double-edged can have a beneficial or harmful effect depending on the situation.
EXAMPLE
Die neue Regelung ist zweischneidig, weil sie zwar für mehr Sicherheit sorgt, aber auch die Freiheit einschränkt.
The new regulation is double-edged because it provides greater security but also restricts freedom.
Forms
Forms adapted from the German Wiktionary entry zweischneidig, by Wiktionary contributors, licence CC BY-SA 4.0.
Comparison
| basic form | zweischneidig |
|---|---|
| comparative | zweischneidiger |
| superlative | am zweischneidigsten |
After der, die, das
| masc. | fem. | neut. | plural | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| nom. | -e | -e | -e | -en |
| acc. | -en | -e | -e | -en |
| dat. | -en | -en | -en | -en |
| gen. | -en | -en | -en | -en |
Add the ending to zweischneidig.
After ein, eine
| masc. | fem. | neut. | plural | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| nom. | -er | -e | -es | -en |
| acc. | -en | -e | -es | -en |
| dat. | -en | -en | -en | -en |
| gen. | -en | -en | -en | -en |
Add the ending to zweischneidig.
Without article
| masc. | fem. | neut. | plural | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| nom. | -er | -e | -es | -e |
| acc. | -en | -e | -es | -e |
| dat. | -em | -er | -em | -en |
| gen. | -en | -er | -en | -er |
Add the ending to zweischneidig.
Usage tips
Word formation
'Zweischneidig' (double-edged) is formed from 'zwei' (two), 'Schneide' (edge), and the ending '-ig'. The word originally referred to something with two edges and is therefore also used for effects with two sides.
EXAMPLE
Das zweischneidige Messer lag sicher verpackt in der Schublade.
The double-edged knife was safely wrapped in the drawer.
Literal context
In its literal meaning, 'zweischneidig' (double-edged) is used mainly for weapons or tools with blades. Typical collocations are 'zweischneidiges Schwert' (double-edged sword) and 'zweischneidige Klinge' (double-edged blade).
EXAMPLE
Der Archäologe untersuchte eine zweischneidige Klinge aus Bronze.
The archaeologist examined a double-edged bronze blade.
Figurative use
In its figurative meaning, 'zweischneidig' (double-edged) often describes an effect, decision, or measure that has both advantages and disadvantages. The word is often placed directly before an abstract noun.
EXAMPLE
Die zweischneidige Entscheidung brachte schnelle Erfolge, verursachte aber später neue Probleme.
The double-edged decision brought quick successes but caused new problems later.
In real life
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