cut both ways

Related to cut both ways: stick with, at first, so much for

cut both ways

To have good and bad effects at the same time. You may dislike dogs, but what will become of your cat if the homeowners' association employs this new "no pets" policy? It will cut both ways, after all.
See also: both, cut, way
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

cut both ways

to affect both sides of an issue equally. Remember that your suggestion that costs should be shared cuts both ways. Your division will have to reduce its budget as well. If our side cannot take along supporters to the game, then yours cannot either. The rule has to cut both ways.
See also: both, cut, way
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.

cut both ways

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]
See also: both, cut, way
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

cut both ways

If something cuts both ways, it has two different effects, usually one good and one bad. Celebrity cuts both ways, of course, and the benefits do not always outweigh the disadvantages. Note: You can also say that something cuts two ways, with the same meaning. Evidence of a harsh childhood might cut two ways with a jury. It might create sympathy or it might be seen as proof that the defendant was likely to become a criminal.
See also: both, cut, way
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

cut both ways

1 (of a point or statement) serve both sides of an argument. 2 (of an action or process) have both good and bad effects.
The image behind this expression is that of a double-edged weapon (see double-edged sword at double-edged).
1 1998 Sanjida O'Connell Angel Bird Words have the power to cut both ways and I was not strong enough to wield them
See also: both, cut, way
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

cut both/two ˈways

have an effect both for and against somebody/something: Banning imports of cars could cut both ways: other countries may ban the import of cars produced here.
See also: both, cut, two, way
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary

cut both ways

To have both favorable and unfavorable results or implications.
See also: both, cut, way
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition.
See also:
  • cut both/two ways
  • it cuts both ways
  • it cuts two ways
  • cat ice
  • cool cat
  • be (all) brothers/sisters under the skin
  • be brothers/sisters under the skin
  • sister
  • chair
  • (as) nervous as a long-tailed cat in a room full of rocking chairs
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McGregor should reassure the supporters that respect and high standards of behaviour cut both ways at Station Park.
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Well that last strong point, the "subjectively even frequency balance," can cut both ways. Many listeners--audiophiles even--are growing to expect hyped or bloated bass.
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In other words, like all ideologies, it is an instrument that can cut both ways, good and bad, and as such it lends itself to manipulation by the managers of society who may use it for whatever purposes their interest dictates.
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The advantages cut both ways. As sales directors and business development executives rely increasingly on financial input at client meetings, training sessions and even sales pitches, organisations are keen to attract accountants who can stand up in front of an audience.
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For our stocking and vest, we cut both ways to form X shapes; for the pillowcases, we left some squares uncut or only partially cut (T shapes).
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Barry Kent: "Our kids are never late into school but this has to cut both ways. The number of times we stand there waiting for them at the end of their day is unreal.
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"It can cut both ways, the lawmakers might silence Napoles and plan to assassinate her," she said.
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However, a Swansea win could cut both ways for Leeds, as if they suffered a defeat against Leicester, they could find themselves below the Welsh club in the table.
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