Have/want it both ways

usgb
phrase

To try to enjoy two different things that are typically incompatible with each other.

You can not stay up late and wake up early, you can't have it both ways.
Visual representation of "have/want it both ways" - To try to enjoy two different things that are typically incompatible with each other

Often appears as...

  • can't have it both ways
  • want to have it both ways

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "have/want it both ways"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Exclusivity

Emphasize that 'have it both ways' implies mutual exclusivity of choices or actions.

Illustration for Exclusivity
If you want to be a vegetarian, you can't have it both ways by eating meat on weekends.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Informal Context

The phrase is casual and used in everyday conversation, not in formal writing.

Illustration for Informal Context
In discussions with friends, you might say, 'You can't spend all day playing and get good grades, you can't have it both ways.'
LampPro Tip 3/3

Decision Making

Use this phrase to highlight the need for making a decision when faced with two incompatible choices.

Illustration for Decision Making
Either go on vacation or save money, but you can't have it both ways.
Visual representation of the word "Have/want it both ways"

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