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Reference : Idioms : M : a mixed blessing

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a mixed blessing

Meaning: You can say something is a mixed blessing if it seems to be good, but in fact has bad effects as well as good effects.

For example:

  • Many scientists said discovering the power of the atom was a mixed blessing as it led to nuclear power, but it also made nuclear weapons possible.

  • Getting the promotion was a mixed blessing because it means I spend less time with my family.

Quick Quiz:

Winning the lottery was a mixed blessing in the end because
  1. it solved all our financial problems
  2. it caused disputes in the family
  3. we gave all the money away

Discuss: a mixed blessing

Idiom of the Day

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