have it both ways

1. Achieve two mutually exclusive objectives, as in Bill wants to have it both ways—to enjoy Christmas at home and to travel with his friends. The related have it all means “to get everything one wants,” as in It's too bad we can't have it all—the wisdom of experience and the fresh enthusiasm of youth. [Early 1900s]

Example Sentences

Google wants to have it both ways.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

I think a lot of comics try to have it both ways.

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When asked about ABC’s abrupt decision to “suspend” Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night talk show, the president tried to have it both ways in classic Trumpian fashion, strutting for his fans just a bit while also brushing off the question with obvious lies.

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If administration officials just claim that the people arrested with guns in D.C. are would-be criminals, they can have it both ways.

Read more on Slate

“Uber utterly failed to deliver the most basic duties it owed to this young woman. Even worse, Uber didn’t care when the incident was reported. While Uber advertises to passengers who drink and heavily profits from such passengers, it cannot arbitrarily abandon them — Uber cannot have it both ways.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times