- Undecided or neutral about something; unable or unwilling to choose between two or more options or sides.
Explanation
Origin
- The phrase evokes the literal image of someone sitting atop a fence that separates two properties or fields.
- From this position, the person is not clearly in either area, representing a state of indecision or neutrality between two opposing choices or viewpoints.
- The expression dates back to at least the 19th century, often used initially in political contexts for those unwilling to commit to a party.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Can't make up my mind.
- Stuck in the middle.
- Waffling. (Especially UK: Being indecisive)
- Flip-flopping. (If changing opinion repeatedly)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- (Usually used *to* someone indecisive, not *by* them): Stop fucking around and pick one.
Milder/Standard:
- Undecided.
- Considering the options.
- Weighing the choices.
- Yet to decide.
- Ambivalent.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most situations, from informal chats to formal discussions. It clearly communicates a state of indecision without being overly emotional.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally clear. The image of sitting on a fence is quite intuitive for representing indecision.
Examples
- I'm still on the fence about whether to buy a new car or keep fixing my old one.
- The senator remained on the fence about the controversial bill until the last minute.
- Stop sitting on the fence – whose side are you on?
Dialogue
Manager: Have you decided who to promote to team lead, Sarah or Mark?
Supervisor: Honestly, I'm still on the fence. Sarah has the experience, but Mark has shown great leadership potential recently.
Manager: It's a tough call. Let's discuss their latest performance reviews again.
Social Media Examples
- On the fence about getting bangs... Yay or Nay? 🤔💇♀️ #hairdecisions #indecisive
- Trying to choose a vacation destination. Currently on the fence between relaxing beach trip or adventurous city break. Thoughts? #travel #helpmedecide
- Still on the fence after reading reviews for [New Gadget]. Some love it, some hate it. #tech #consumeradvice
Response Patterns
- What are the pros and cons you're weighing?
- What's making it hard to decide?
- Take your time, it's a big decision.
- You need to make a choice soon.
- Is there anything I can do to help you decide?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says they are 'on the fence':
- Asking about the options (What are you choosing between?).
- Exploring the reasons for hesitation (What are the sticking points?).
- Offering advice or perspective.
- Suggesting a method for deciding (e.g., making a list, talking it through).
- Asking if there's a deadline for the decision.
Conversation Starter
- No. It describes a state of being, usually in response to a question about a decision.
Intonation
- Usually neutral, reflecting the state of indecision.
- Stress typically falls on FENCE. I'm still on the FENCE about it.
Generation Differences
- Universal expression, understood and used by all age groups.
Regional Variations
- Universal across English-speaking regions.