CUT BOTH WAYS Definition & Meaning

cut both ways

Discover More

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]

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The disbelief he was in Los Angeles cut both ways, excitement for the new opportunity and shock that a trade could even happen.

From

This could cut both ways: The breaded chicken strips atop the lo mein noodles tasted like, well, regular chicken tenders — totally average.

From

It certainly can cut both ways.

From

Yet the timing could cut both ways strategically.

From

Those calls can cut both ways politically: It’s as easy to imagine Rep. Jim Jordan demanding that Sotomayor appear before his House Government Oversight Committee to discuss her book-sale dealing as Sen. Wyden issuing a subpoena to Thomas to talk about the RV loan.

From

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

cutbank cut capers

Browse

51�Թ�

cut both ways

Idioms and Phrases

Example Sentences