fall between two stools
The idiom "fall between two stools" originates from a medieval Latin proverb and describes situations where indecision or attempting to satisfy two conflicting needs leads to failure.
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Definition
C1General
(idiomatic)To fail to succeed in either of two aims due to an inability to fully commit to one.
Example
- By trying to cater to both advanced and beginner students, the course fell between two stools and satisfied neither group.
C1General
(idiomatic)To fit into neither of two categories, resulting in neglect or failure.
Example
- The proposal fell between two stools, as it was neither innovative enough for the tech enthusiasts nor simple enough for the average user.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "fall between two stools":
between a rock and a hard placebetwixt and betweenfall throughfence sitteron the fencefall off one's perchfall into