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cut both ways
Idioms and Phrases
Have a mixed effect, have advantages and disadvantages. For example, Their solution will cut both ways; it'll take longer but is permanent . This metaphoric expression alludes to a double-edged sword. [c. 1600]Example Sentences
The two sentiments usually come bundled together, and cut both ways.
The tensions in the house cut both ways: what happens upstairs affects those below and vice-versa.
It was a miserable policy to be forced to adopt, for such restrictions upon trade inevitably cut both ways.
His sword had a double edge, and he habitually used it with a sweep that cut both ways.
In fact, it was so--the misdeed was a double-edged blade which cut both ways.
It cut both ways, as often as not in point of fact, his experience told him.
They were little two-edged swords which might cut both ways.
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
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