Learn English Idioms - To Be On The Fence

Welcome to NJCLT's free English lesson, where we help you master the intricacies of the English language. In this lesson, we will explore the popular idiomatic expression 'to be on the fence' and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of its meaning, usage, and examples.

What does 'to be on the fence' mean?

'To be on the fence' is an English idiom that refers to being undecided or unsure about a particular situation or decision. It implies being unable or unwilling to choose between two options, remaining in a state of indecision or neutrality.

Usage of 'to be on the fence'

This idiom is commonly used in various contexts, including personal relationships, politics, and decision-making processes. When someone is on the fence, they are hesitant or unable to commit themselves fully to one side or another.

Individuals can be on the fence about a wide range of topics, such as career choices, political ideologies, or even relationship decisions. It conveys a sense of ambiguity, hesitation, and a lack of decisiveness in making a choice.

Examples of 'to be on the fence'

To provide you with a better understanding of how this idiom is used in everyday conversations, let's look at a few examples:

1. John is on the fence about which university to attend, as he is torn between pursuing a degree in engineering or business.
2. The couple is on the fence about whether to buy a house or continue renting.
3. The politician remained on the fence during the debate, refusing to take a definitive stance on the issue.
4. Sheila is on the fence about accepting the job offer because she values the stability of her current position.

Benefits of mastering idioms

Learning idiomatic expressions like 'to be on the fence' not only strengthens your command over the English language but also enhances your ability to communicate effectively in various social and professional settings.

Utilizing idioms adds versatility and depth to your language skills, making conversations more engaging and impactful. Understanding idioms enables you to better comprehend native English speakers and express yourself in a natural and fluent manner.

How to incorporate idioms in your daily conversations

Incorporating idioms into your speech can be quite exciting and rewarding. Here are a few tips to help you seamlessly integrate idiomatic expressions like 'to be on the fence' into your daily conversations:

• Read extensively: Reading books, newspapers, and online articles will expose you to a wide range of idiomatic expressions. Take note of them and try to use them in relevant situations.
• Watch movies and TV shows: Pay attention to how idioms are used in movies and TV shows. Take inspiration from native speakers and practice incorporating these expressions into your own speech.
• Practice with native speakers: Engage in conversations with native English speakers to gain practical experience in using idiomatic expressions appropriately. They can provide guidance and help correct any mistakes you may make.
• Keep a journal: Maintain a journal where you note down interesting idioms you come across. Write down their meanings, usage, and contexts. Reviewing the journal regularly will reinforce your understanding and help you remember them.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have now gained valuable insights into the idiom 'to be on the fence' and its usage in the English language. Enhancing your idiomatic repertoire will undoubtedly enrich your English-speaking skills and enable you to communicate more effectively with native speakers.

At NJCLT, we are committed to helping you master the English language. Stay tuned for more free lessons on idioms and various other aspects of English grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.