1. To want to benefit or profit from two or more separate and often contradictory or incompatible things or sources. In trying to strike a trade deal with the two nations, it's clear that the prime minister wants his bread buttered on both sides. The CEO wants her bread buttered on both sides, secretly investing in oil companies while publicly backing green energy initiatives to gain popular support.

2. To desire easy prosperity, success, or wealth without having to make sacrifices or put in the necessary effort. Kids these days want their bread buttered on both sides. They expect high-paying jobs like it's their birthright, but they aren't willing to work their way to the top!