English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Sit on the fence
Meaning
The idiom "sit on the fence" means to remain neutral or indifferent, not taking any sides in a conflict or controversy. It often implies that someone is being passive or avoiding making a decision or taking action.
Usage
- The politician decided to sit on the fence during the debate, refusing to take a stance on the controversial issue.
- My colleagues and I always try to stay neutral and avoid sitting on the fence when it comes to political issues.
- The manager asked me to sit on the fence until she could gather more information about the situation.
- As a mediator, my role is often to help parties sit on the fence until they can find common ground.
- It's important to avoid sitting on the fence when it comes to personal relationships - take a stand and express your feelings! The usage of the idiom "sit on the fence" can vary depending on the context. For example, in a political setting, it may be seen as a positive trait to remain neutral and not take sides. However, in a personal relationship, sitting on the fence may be seen as cowardly or indecisive.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom "sit on the fence" is unclear. Some theories suggest that it comes from the practice of sitting on the fence to watch a farmer's cattle. By staying in the middle, the observer could see both sides of the pasture without taking sides. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this theory. The idiom has been used in English since at least the 15th century, but its meaning and usage have evolved over time. In the past, it was often used to describe someone who was physically sitting on a fence. Today, the idiom is more commonly used to refer to someone who is being neutral or indifferent.
Synonyms in English
- Stay out of it
- Keep quiet
- Mind your own business
- Don't get involved
- Stay impartial
Synonyms in other languages
- French: ôter son nom à la cause (to remove one's name from the cause)
- German: sich nicht entscheiden (to decide not to decide)
- Spanish: mantenerse al margen (to stay at a distance)
- Italian: non far partecipare ad un cosiddetto "punto di vista" (not take part in a particular point of view)
- Portuguese: manter-se além do campo de disputa (to remain outside the field of dispute)