
IdiomDaily Life
English
sit on the fence
Meaning: To avoid taking sides.
Example: “On the new stadium, the mayor is still sitting on the fence.”
Origin: A fence divides two fields, and someone sitting on it is in neither. American political writing used it from the early 19th century for politicians who would not commit.
Equivalents in other languages
Spanish: estar entre dos aguas Literally: To be between two waters
French: Nager entre deux eaux Literally: To swim between two waters
More English idioms
- the four corners of the earth Every part of the world.
- hand in hand Closely together; in close association.
- butter wouldn't melt in someone's mouth Someone looks innocent or proper, but probably is not.
- have the inside track To have an advantage over others.
- a horn of plenty An abundant source of something.
- kicking and screaming Very reluctantly, protesting all the way.
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