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Region: US | Usage example: He’s still on the fence about which offer to accept.

On the fence

Meaning

Undecided between options.

Usage

Used for indecisiveness.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Imagery of sitting on a fence between sides.

Common from 19th-century political coverage.

Related Idioms

Between a rock and a hard place

Stuck between two negative options.

Kid in a candy store

Overwhelmed with excitement in a place full of options.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.