Translation guide
To avoid taking sides in a dispute or decision; to remain neutral or uncommitted.
The speaker wants to express that someone is not choosing between two options or opinions, often to avoid conflict.
Literally 'take a neither-here-nor-there attitude'. A common, natural way to describe fence-sitting.
He always sits on the fence.
Means 'take a neutral stance'. Slightly more formal, suitable for political or diplomatic contexts.
Literally 'observe the situation'. Implies waiting to see which side will win before committing. Formal and somewhat literary.
The speaker wants to express that someone is postponing a choice, often to gather more information or avoid commitment.
The English idiom 'sit on the fence' does not have a direct Japanese equivalent using 'fence' (柵). Translating it literally as 柵に座る would be nonsensical. Use the phrases above instead.
He sat on the fence regarding that issue.
He sat on the fence and didn't agree with either proposal.
He is still sitting on the fence.
Literally 'postpone the decision'. Emphasizes the act of delaying rather than neutrality.
He sat on the fence and didn't join either opinion.