Choose the right meaning of the underlined idiom. Many people have developed a…
2023
Choose the right meaning of the underlined idiom.
Many people have developed a habit of sitting on the fence and not deciding the issue.
- A.
to sit on the garden fence
- B.
being equidistant from the two sides
- C.
supporting both sides at the same time
- D.
unwilling or unable to choose between two sides
Attempted by 70 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct meaning: unwilling or unable to choose between two sides
Explanation: The idiom refers to a person who avoids making a decision or refuses to take a side in a dispute. It describes indecision or neutrality, not a literal action.
Why this choice is correct: It captures the idea of being unwilling or unable to choose between two alternatives.
Why the other choices are incorrect:
The phrase meaning "to sit on the garden fence" is literal and not idiomatic; "being equidistant from the two sides" describes physical distance; and "supporting both sides at the same time" implies active support rather than indecision.
Example: When the committee debated the policy, many members sat on the fence and avoided taking a clear position.
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