sit on the fence — to avoid making a decision or taking sides in a dispute; to remain neutral
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: to avoid making a decision or taking sides in a dispute; to remain neutral
Pronunciation (IPA): /sɪt ɑːn ðə fens/
Example Sentences
- My friend always sits on the fence when we're choosing a restaurant - it drives me crazy!
- The CEO can't sit on the fence about layoffs any longer - employees need to know.
- Stop sitting on the fence about your major - graduation is next year!
sit on the fence
NOUN[/sɪt ɑːn ðə fens/]
to avoid making a decision or taking sides in a dispute; to remain neutral
to avoid making a decision or taking sides in a dispute; to remain neutral
Sitting tense on the fence, trying to make sense
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase originated in 19th-century American English from the literal image of sitting atop a fence, from which one can see both sides of land but place one's feet on neither. It metaphorically describes the position of remaining neutral or uncommitted between two opposing sides or options.
Breakdown
sit (to be seated) + on (positioned above) + the (definite article) + fence (barrier dividing two areas). The fence symbolizes a boundary between two opposing positions, while sitting upon it represents a state of indecision or neutrality rather than commitment to either side.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My friend always sits on the fence when we're choosing a restaurant - it drives me crazy!”
“The CEO can't sit on the fence about layoffs any longer - employees need to know.”
“Stop sitting on the fence about your major - graduation is next year!”
“He's been sitting on the fence about proposing for three years - she might leave him!”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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