be talking out of both sides of (one's) mouth

be talking out of both sides of (one's) mouth

To be trying to maintain contradictory positions or beliefs in an attempt to please the most people. We all know that you've been talking out of both sides of your mouth about the merger, so please, just tell us the truth. Will there be layoffs or not? I don't trust that candidate—he still hasn't committed to a clear course of action and is always talking out of both sides of his mouth. You're still talking out of both sides of your mouth on this issue? No, you need to commit to a position—otherwise, you'll seem wishy-washy.

See also: both, mouth, of, out, side, talk

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