ENENENEN
FR
ES
RU
IT
TR
UKon the fence
/ɒnðə fˈɛns/
/ɑːnðə fˈɛns/on the fence
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "on the fence" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "on the fence" can be traced back to the literal image of someone physically sitting or straddling a fence, which represents a position of neutrality or indecision. The phrase has been in use since the late 19th century and has its roots in the idea of being caught between two sides or options. It can also be used in discussions about opinions or beliefs when someone is hesitant to take a definitive stance or express a clear viewpoint.
Examples
1. I was on the fence about it when I saw the trailer, but I thought it was a little more unique enough.
2. Now if this person was not a complete opposite, and they were kind of, I don't wanna say on the fence, but if they were on the fence, and then kind of transitioning into similar opinions, then maybe.
3. I am a little on the fence about bringing this.
4. A survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation found that about a quarter of Americans either don't want to get vaccinated or remain on the fence about it.
more