The phrase "sits the fence" describes a person who remains neutral or undecided in a particular situation. The phonetic transcription for this phrase is /sɪts ðə fɛns/. The "s" sound in "sits" is spelled with an "s" and the "th" sound in "the" is spelled with a "th". The stress is on the first syllable of "fence". The word "sits" is spelled with an "s" and not a "c" because the pronunciation of the "s" sound in this context is unvoiced.
The phrase "sits the fence" is an idiom that refers to a person or group of people who are undecided, neutral, or hesitant about making a decision or taking a particular stance on an issue. When someone "sits the fence," they metaphorically picture themselves being on a fence, which symbolizes a middle ground or a position of uncertainty.
This idiom often conveys the idea of a person who is reluctant to commit or take sides, either due to a lack of information, fear of making the wrong choice, or a desire to avoid conflicts or controversies. Consequently, individuals who "sit the fence" tend to stay neutral, refrain from expressing strong opinions, or avoid making definite commitments.
"Sitting the fence" can have both positive and negative connotations. On one hand, it may imply a thoughtful approach, where individuals carefully evaluate different perspectives before reaching a decision. Conversely, it can suggest indecisiveness or a lack of conviction, portraying individuals as being incapable of taking a firm stand.
Overall, the idiom "sits the fence" is an expression used to describe someone's state of indecision or neutrality. It highlights the individual's reluctance to commit to a particular side, often portraying them as hesitant, uncertain, or avoiding taking a clear position on an issue or situation.