ดาบสองคม
double-edged sword
A native Thai recording for this word is on the way. Please check back soon.
- 1 double-edged sword、something with both benefits and risks
This expression describes something powerful or beneficial that can also cause harm or produce unintended negative consequences—a double-edged sword.
double-edged sword、something with both benefits and risks
A metaphor for something whose benefits or power come with a significant risk of harm or negative consequences.
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โซเชียลมีเดียเปรียบเสมือนดาบสองคม มีประโยชน์ในการหาความรู้ แต่ก็ทำลายสุขภาพจิตได้เช่นกัน soochîan miidia prìap samʉ̌an dàap sɔ̌ɔŋ khom mii prayòot nay kaan hǎa khwaam rúu tɛ̀ɛ kɔ̂ɔ thamlaay sùkkhaphâap cìt dâay chên kan Social media is a double-edged sword. It can be useful for gaining knowledge, but it can also harm your mental health. โซเชียลมีเดียเปรียบเสมือนดาบสองคม มีประโยชน์ในการหาความรู้ แต่ก็ทำลายสุขภาพจิตได้เช่นกัน details
Learning notes
Explanation
The expression is formed from ดาบ “sword,” สอง “two,” and คม “edge” or “sharpness,” literally suggesting a sword with two cutting edges. It is normally used metaphorically, much like “a double-edged sword.” It conveys more than a neutral mix of pros and cons: the same power or effectiveness that brings benefits may also cause harm or backfire. Common patterns include เป็นดาบสองคม “be a double-edged sword,” เปรียบเสมือนดาบสองคม “be like a double-edged sword,” and กลายเป็นดาบสองคม “become a double-edged sword.”
Usage
It is commonly used when discussing technology, social media, science, medicine, policies, laws, power, or teaching methods—especially when their benefits come with meaningful risks. It is natural in conversation as well as in news reports, commentary, and formal discussions.
Caution
Although สอง means “two,” this expression does not mean “two swords”; that would be ดาบสองเล่ม. For a neutral statement that something simply has pros and cons, มีทั้งข้อดีและข้อเสีย is usually more appropriate.