[have] it both ways
1
to benefit from two opposing or contradictory situations or options at the same time
The idiom "have it both ways" originates from the desire to enjoy two mutually exclusive benefits or situations simultaneously. It reflects the impossibility of benefiting from two opposing options at the same time. It is used to describe a situation where someone wants to enjoy the benefits of two conflicting options or circumstances, often implying that such a desire is unrealistic or unreasonable.
- You can't criticize my decisions and then expect me to fix everything for you.You can't have it both ways.
- You can't skip practice and then complain about not being chosen for the team.You can't have it both ways.
- You can't ignore your responsibilities and then demand recognition for your achievements.You can't have it both ways.
- You can't ignore the rules and then complain when others do the same.You can't have it both ways.