Have/want it both ways

Pro Tip 1/3

Exclusivity

Emphasize that 'have it both ways' implies mutual exclusivity of choices or actions.

If you want to be a vegetarian, you can't have it both ways by eating meat on weekends.

Pro Tip 2/3

Informal Context

The phrase is casual and used in everyday conversation, not in formal writing.

In discussions with friends, you might say, 'You can't spend all day playing and get good grades, you can't have it both ways.'

Pro Tip 3/3

Decision Making

Use this phrase to highlight the need for making a decision when faced with two incompatible choices.

Either go on vacation or save money, but you can't have it both ways.