work both ways

work both ways

1. To have comparable effects for both parties involved in something We're willing to negotiate, but it has to work both ways—you need to compromise on some issues as well.
2. To produce both positive and negative effects, perhaps simultaneously. Unfortunately, for many families, the program works both ways. It provides opportunities, but it also prevents them from qualifying for other services.
See also: both, way, work
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • along similar lines
  • similar
  • the likes of
  • the likes of (someone or something)
  • the likes of somebody
  • likes of
  • likes of, the
  • compromise on
  • compromise on (something)
  • clear the way for
References in classic literature
"No; but they say it is a poor rule that don't work both ways," answered the Scarecrow; "and these females are also of the opinion that men have ruled the land long enough.
The Marvelous Land of Oz
It's a poor rule that won't work both ways. The second is that--well, in a word, you are talking great nonsense!"
American
"Things can be said in the heat of the moment and contracts work both ways but players need to play and keep fit," said Taylor.
Don't strike; FOOTBALL SHORTS WEST BROM
What I'm trying to say is, it can work both ways and it's good to be different!
YOU SAY; DEAR COLEEN; Britain's most straight-talking problem page
While it's undeniably important that funding is maintained for preparing the key events and functions which help Wales build its standing on the international stage, it is also important that austerity is seen to work both ways.
WE SAY
But Birmingham Airport's success at agreeing a deal with Air India will work both ways. It should also help to encourage yet more Indian investment in the region.
Air expansion must be allowed to take off; COMMENT
This of course can work both ways as Cardiff Airport also serves South Wales, Swansea and West Wales.
Line to Cardiff airport; YOUR LETTERS TO THE NATIONAL NEWSPAPER OF WALES
Of course it can work both ways and, of course, I got a guaranteed price so I was on at 4-1.
THE LAST WORD ... DOG DAY AFTERNOONS Dave Johnston's weekly look at the Bags scene
It is a scenario which could work both ways for Liverpool, who have consistently finished in the top four but are struggling to do so this season.
Benitez rejects Champ play-off
Additionally, she covered the issue of loyalty by both real estate brokers and prospective buyers, that honesty and ethics work both ways and cautioned prospective buyers to resist the temptation of purchasing the property directly from the seller without the knowledge of the broker after they have been shown the property by the broker.
Broker outlines ABCs for buyers
However, it should work BOTH ways, and positive publicity given to those who are prepared to be honest in the face of intimidation.
LEGGO S LETTERS: OLD FIRM SPECIAL: THANKS FOR THE HONEST VIEWS
Well, can I point out that sometimes it can work both ways?
Your Letter: Making a point Mersey Memory
NOTORIOUS CYPHERPUNK ACTIVIST Jim Bell is heading to jail again for what he sees as a mere attempt to remind the government that surveillance can work both ways.
Counter-Surveillance Don't try this at home. (Citings)
Such results work both ways: Kansas City's surplus exchange, for example, reports having provided $375,000 worth of equipment to 1,700 non-profit organizations.
Waste not, want not: waste exchanges save energy, money and landfill space. (Currents)
The new methodology will work both ways, however, and tenants will be able to employ architects and engineers to rebut the owner's claims of conditions.
DHCR setting new policy for tenant complaint challenges