be on the fence

Meaning

This expression means to be undecided about a choice, decision, or position, often because you can see both sides of an argument. In relationships, it describes someone who is hesitant to make a commitment, choose a side in a conflict, or make a major life decision with their partner.

Examples

• I'm still on the fence about whether to move in with my partner or keep my own apartment.

  I'm still on the fence about whether to move in with my partner or keep my own apartment.

• She has been on the fence about accepting his proposal for weeks.

  She has been on the fence about accepting his proposal for weeks.

• My parents are arguing, and I'm on the fence because I understand both of their points.

  My parents are arguing, and I'm on the fence because I understand both of their points.

• If you stay on the fence for too long, you might lose the opportunity completely.

  If you stay on the fence for too long, you might lose the opportunity completely.

• He is on the fence about attending his high school reunion with his wife.

  He is on the fence about attending his high school reunion with his wife.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I am in the fence about moving.

  ✓ I am on the fence about moving.

  The correct preposition is 'on', not 'in'.

• ✗ She is on the fence to marry him.

  ✓ She is on the fence about marrying him.

  'On the fence' is typically followed by the preposition 'about' + gerund/noun, not an infinitive verb.

Related Expressions

Practice

• He's still ___ about whether to go on a second date with her.

  💡 Undecided, sitting between two choices.

  Show answer

  on the fence

• Don't stay ___ forever; you need to make a decision eventually.

  💡 Hesitating to make a choice.

  Show answer

  on the fence