Fence-sit

To avoid taking a clear position or making a definite decision on a particular issue, especially when there is a choice between two or more sides. This often involves remaining neutral, impartial, or evasive, and may stem from indecision, fear of repercussions, a desire to appease all parties, or a reluctance to commit to a specific course of action. Fence-sitting usually implies a delay in action or a failure to offer a clear and decisive stance, thereby avoiding responsibility or potential conflict.

Fence-sit meaning with examples

• During the heated political debate, the candidate was criticized for fence-sitting, carefully dodging specific questions about controversial topics. They preferred to offer vague generalities, hoping to gain support from various voting blocs without alienating any. This strategic avoidance allowed the candidate to appeal to a broader base, but left many voters frustrated by a lack of concrete policy stances.
• When faced with the ethical dilemma in the workplace, the manager chose to fence-sit, refusing to address the employee's concerns directly. By avoiding a firm decision, the manager hoped to sidestep any accusations of bias or taking sides. This ultimately prolonged the issue and damaged team morale, as the ambiguity left employees feeling unsupported and uncertain.
• The negotiation between the two parties reached an impasse as one side, unwilling to compromise, decided to fence-sit, hoping time would be on their side. This refusal to propose alternatives prolonged the discussion and created further dissatisfaction. The strategy, however, proved ineffective as it merely postponed the inevitable, ultimately leading to a breakdown.
• Many news outlets were accused of fence-sitting when covering the sensitive social issue, carefully balancing different viewpoints without providing enough editorial judgment. Some critics felt the resulting reports lacked conviction, and ultimately failed to offer their audience clear insights and potential solutions, opting instead for a neutral portrayal.
• Despite the urgency of the climate crisis, certain government officials were accused of fence-sitting on environmental policies, preferring to focus on economic interests. Their inaction and unwillingness to embrace meaningful changes created controversy, with some fearing the long-term consequences of their reluctance to commit to a specific environmental plan.