work both sides against the middle

alt-of alternative

Alternative form of play both sides against the middle

Japanese Meaning

対立する両陣営の隙をついて、自分に有利な状況を作り出す / 両側をあおって互いの力を削ぎ、自分の利益を最大化する / 二者の対立を利用して、両方から利益を引き出す

The negotiator tried to work both sides against the middle to secure a better deal.

交渉者はより良い取引を得るために、両陣営を利用して互いに争わせようとした。

Sense（1）

Alternative form of play both sides against the middle

works both sides against the middle

（ present singular third-person ）

working both sides against the middle

（ participle present ）

worked both sides against the middle

（ participle past ）

worked both sides against the middle

（ past ）