Fence-sitting

Fence-sitting describes the act of avoiding taking a firm stance or making a definitive decision on a controversial or divisive issue. It involves remaining neutral or noncommittal, often to avoid conflict, maintain social harmony, or postpone potential negative consequences. Individuals engaging in fence-sitting may appear indecisive, hesitant, or unwilling to commit to a particular viewpoint. This behavior can be observed in various contexts, including political debates, social discussions, and personal relationships.

Fence-sitting meaning with examples

• During the debate, the politician engaged in blatant fence-sitting, carefully avoiding any concrete answers and offering only vague platitudes. This strategy frustrated many voters who were looking for decisive leadership. The politician hoped to garner support from both sides of the issue.
• Sarah's indecisiveness on the matter was seen as fence-sitting. She wouldn't openly support her friends' campaign for the school president, making it hard for the other side to tell where her loyalties lay. This left her friends wondering what her true beliefs were.
• When asked about his opinion on the new company policy, Mark chose to practice fence-sitting, stating only that he understood both sides of the argument. He was afraid of upsetting his boss or his colleagues, so he chose a safe and noncommittal position.
• Many voters, after watching the Presidential debate, accused both candidates of fence-sitting on key issues. They said both would offer bland promises and avoid any real commitment in order to appear more appealing to a wider array of voters.