doubtful advantage

In this case it sacrifices the unquestionable right of one party to the very doubtful advantage of another.

From Principles Of Political Economy by John J. (John Joseph) Lalor

During the first ages of its existence Torcello enjoyed the doubtful advantage of protection from the Greek emperors, but fell afterward under the domination of Venice.

From Venetian Life by William Dean Howells

In Carlyle's case long life was a doubtful advantage, and in the matter of smoking he did not practice what he preached.

From Study and Stimulants; Or, the Use of Intoxicants and Narcotics in Relation to Intellectual Life by Alfred Arthur Reade

Grey and Spellman had, however, to go and see their own friends, and they enjoyed the rather doubtful advantage of again undergoing the same treatment they had received at our house.

From Marmaduke Merry A Tale of Naval Adventures in Bygone Days by William Henry Giles Kingston

The Catholic faction had, during the whole war, the doubtful advantage that their quarrels and private dissensions were not brought to light by the press, but their Protestant opponents were broken into parties.

From Pictures of German Life in the XVth XVIth and XVIIth Centuries, Vol. II. by Gustav Freytag