Cut both ways

Meaning

The idiom "cut both ways" means that something has advantages as well as disadvantages. It suggests that a decision, action or situation can have both positive and negative consequences.

Usage

• The new project might seem exciting at first, but it's important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a decision.
• The politician's comments on social media were cutting both ways, as they appealed to some voters while alienating others.
• The doctor's advice was to take precautions, but also to enjoy life to its fullest - it cut both ways.
• The new policy could help small businesses, but also lead to increased competition for larger companies.
• The actor's performance received mixed reviews - it cut both ways.

Roots and History

The earliest known use of the idiom "cut both ways" can be traced back to 14th century English literature. It originally meant that something had a sharp edge or was able to cut in two directions. Over time, the meaning evolved to include situations with positive and negative consequences.

Synonyms in English

• Benefits and risks
• Pros and cons
• Advantages and disadvantages
• Double-edged sword
• Two sides of the coin

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: "doble cara" (both sides)
• French: "double-face" (two faces)
• German: "zwischen zwei Stühlen sitzen" (sitting between two stools)
• Italian: "facciamo di tutto e neppure non ci sono i fiori" (doing everything and still no flowers)
• Arabic: "المخترح اليدعم" (both good and bad)

Similar Idioms

• the last straw

• feet of clay

• come to think of/about it