not have it both ways

Are you using the idiom not have it both ways but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the not have it both ways idiom and the situations in which it is used.

Meaning of "not have it both ways"

Meaning

The idiom 'not have it both ways' is used to express that someone cannot have two contradictory demands fulfilled simultaneously. This idiom conveys the idea that one can have either one or the other, but not both. It is a criticism of someone who is behaving in a way that is inconsistent and hypocritical.

Etymology

The phrase 'not have it both ways' is derived from the Latin phrase 'non habes utrumque', which translates literally to 'you do not have both'. This phrase has been present in English writing since at least 1650, when it first appeared in the work 'The Christian's Pattern, or a Treatise of the Imitation of Christ' by Thomas a Kempis.

Usage

The idiom 'not have it both ways' is used to criticize someone who is attempting to achieve and demand two conflicting outcomes or demands. It is often used by someone who is frustrated or disbelieving at another's inconsistency, or who feels that their demands are unreasonable or hypocritical. The idiom is also used when someone insists on having their demands met even though the demands are mutually exclusive.

Example Sentences

• You can't have it both ways - you can't expect the company to lower costs while also increasing wages.
• He wants to be taken seriously but acts immaturely - he can't have it both ways.
• I don't understand why you're trying to have it both ways - you can either go to the party or stay home, but not both.

The power of idioms transcends languages!

"Putting the cart before the horse" is an English idiom that means doing things in the wrong order. In Russian, the similar idiom is "Кладёт колесо впереди лошади," which translates to "Putting the cart before the horse." This idiom emphasizes the idea that doing things in the wrong order can lead to confusion and problems down the line.