on the fence
Unable to decide between two options
Literalmente: Physically positioned on a wooden or metal barrier between two areas.
Use this phrase when you have two choices but aren't ready to pick one yet.
Em 15 segundos
- Used when you are undecided between two specific options.
- Commonly followed by the preposition 'about' plus the topic.
- Perfect for both casual chats and professional brainstorming.
Significado
Imagine you are sitting on top of a fence between two yards. You haven't jumped down into either side yet because you can't decide which path to take.
Exemplos-chave
3 de 6Choosing a dinner spot
I'm still on the fence about sushi or pizza tonight.
I'm still on the fence about sushi or pizza tonight.
A job offer discussion
The salary is great, but I'm on the fence because of the commute.
The salary is great, but I'm on the fence because of the commute.
Texting a friend about a party
I'm on the fence about coming tonight; I'm just so tired!
I'm on the fence about coming tonight; I'm just so tired!
Contexto cultural
The phrase gained popularity in 19th-century American politics to describe 'mugwumps' or politicians who wouldn't commit to a party. Over time, it lost its negative 'cowardly' connotation. Now, it is a socially acceptable way to ask for more time to think in a fast-paced culture.
The 'About' Rule
Always follow the phrase with 'about' if you are mentioning the choice. 'I'm on the fence about the car' sounds perfect.
Don't overstay your welcome
In some cultures, staying 'on the fence' too long can make you seem flaky or unable to lead. Use it to buy time, but eventually, you have to jump off!
Em 15 segundos
- Used when you are undecided between two specific options.
- Commonly followed by the preposition 'about' plus the topic.
- Perfect for both casual chats and professional brainstorming.
What It Means
Being on the fence means you are undecided. You are stuck between two choices. You see the pros and cons of both. You aren't ready to commit to a 'yes' or a 'no' yet. It is the mental equivalent of hovering in the middle.
How To Use It
You usually say you are on the fence about something. Use the preposition about to link it to your dilemma. For example, I'm on the fence about the blue car. You can also say you are still on the fence. This shows you need more time. It is a very visual way to describe a stalemate in your head.
When To Use It
Use it when someone asks for your opinion or a decision. It works perfectly at a restaurant when the menu is too good. It is great for big life choices like moving or jobs. Use it when you want to be honest but non-committal. It sounds much more natural than saying 'I am currently experiencing indecision.'
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for tiny, instant things. If someone asks if you want water, don't say you're on the fence. That just makes you look weirdly intense about hydration! Avoid it in high-stakes emergencies too. If a building is on fire, nobody wants to hear you're on the fence about leaving. Also, avoid it if you actually have an opinion but are just being shy.
Cultural Background
This phrase has been around since the 1800s. It originally had a political flavor. It described politicians who wouldn't pick a side in a debate. They wanted to see who would win first! Today, it is much more personal and less about being sneaky. It is just a very human way to say 'I'm thinking.'
Common Variations
You might hear people say they are going to straddle the fence. This is a bit more active. It implies you are trying to keep both options alive. Sometimes people say they are sitting on the fence. If you finally decide, you jump off the fence or come down on one side of it. Most of the time, the simple version is your best bet.
Notas de uso
This idiom is highly versatile and fits almost any social or professional situation. It is considered 'safe' English—it won't offend anyone and it doesn't sound too slangy.
The 'About' Rule
Always follow the phrase with 'about' if you are mentioning the choice. 'I'm on the fence about the car' sounds perfect.
Don't overstay your welcome
In some cultures, staying 'on the fence' too long can make you seem flaky or unable to lead. Use it to buy time, but eventually, you have to jump off!
The Political Secret
In the UK and Australia, 'sitting on the fence' is often used as a mild criticism for someone who refuses to take a stand on a moral issue.
Exemplos
6I'm still on the fence about sushi or pizza tonight.
I'm still on the fence about sushi or pizza tonight.
A classic everyday dilemma between two food options.
The salary is great, but I'm on the fence because of the commute.
The salary is great, but I'm on the fence because of the commute.
Used here to weigh a specific pro against a specific con.
I'm on the fence about coming tonight; I'm just so tired!
I'm on the fence about coming tonight; I'm just so tired!
A soft way to say 'maybe' without sounding rude.
My bank account says no, but my heart says yes. I'm firmly on the fence.
My bank account says no, but my heart says yes. I'm firmly on the fence.
Adding 'firmly' adds a humorous touch to the indecision.
He's on the fence about moving in together, and it's hurting my feelings.
He's on the fence about moving in together, and it's hurting my feelings.
Shows how the phrase can describe emotional hesitation.
The board is still on the fence regarding the new marketing strategy.
The board is still on the fence regarding the new marketing strategy.
Describes a group's collective lack of consensus.
Teste-se
Choose the correct preposition to complete the idiom.
I'm on the fence ___ buying the new iPhone.
We almost always use 'about' to describe the topic of our indecision.
Which word best completes the phrase in a natural way?
I'm ___ on the fence, so give me one more day to decide.
'Still' emphasizes that the state of indecision is continuing.
🎉 Pontuação: /2
Recursos visuais
Formality of 'On the Fence'
Talking to your best friend.
I'm on the fence about that movie.
Talking to a coworker or boss.
I'm still on the fence about the proposal.
A legal or academic document.
The committee remains undecided.
When to jump on the fence
Shopping
Two pairs of shoes? Use it!
Career
Two job offers? Use it!
Social
Invited to two parties? Use it!
Politics
Two candidates? Use it!
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasNot at all! It is a very polite and neutral way to say you need more time to think. It sounds much softer than just saying 'I don't know.'
Technically, a fence has two sides, so it usually implies two choices. However, people often use it even if they have three or four options they are considering.
You could say you are decided or that you have made up your mind. If you are very sure, you might say you are all in on an option.
Yes, it is perfectly fine for internal emails. For example, I'm still on the fence about the Q3 budget is common professional English.
No, that would mean you are physically stuck inside the wood! Always use the preposition on.
Not necessarily. It means you understand the options well, but they are so equal in value that you can't pick one yet.
You can say I've come off the fence or I've finally made a call. Both mean the period of indecision is over.
People might say they are waffling or flip-flopping, but those are usually more negative and mean you keep changing your mind.
Yes! You can say The team is on the fence if the whole group cannot reach a consensus.
It is always on the fence. Think of yourself sitting on the very top rail of the fence.
Frases relacionadas
In two minds
Having two different feelings or thoughts about something.
Up in the air
When a situation is uncertain or not yet decided.
Torn between
Finding it very difficult to choose between two things you like.
Wavering
Going back and forth between two opinions.
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