Definition
Something which has both significant positive and negative aspects.
Origins
From cruel + mistress
In Context
- "For bandleaders, society can be a cruel mistress. At debutante parties they receive compliments but not calling cards, at charity balls they take their breaks with their players instead of their patrons […]"
- "Even if you can’t afford a new one, the cruel mistress of depreciation will soon have her way with the Stinger and that’s very good news."
Also Said As
- fickle mistress
- harsh mistress