fence with

Idioms  

1. Avoid answering directly, try to evade, as in The mayor was very clever at fencing with the press about his future plans. This expression transfers the parry and thrust of fencing to a verbal exchange. [Second half of 1600s]

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Example Sentences

He also has lined his fence with plastic skeletons and placards reading, “This Prison is Going to Kill Arkansas.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

The wind “lofted a 12-foot segment of chain link fence with privacy fabric and threw it 70 feet across parking lot,” the weather service said.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2025

This year marks his 100th, but a temporary fence, with graffiti sprayed on the “no trespassing” signs, now stands in the way of anyone who might be inclined to mark the day here.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

The base is encircled by a large perimeter fence, with security camera and sensors in the area in addition to manned security checkpoints.

From BBC • Jun. 27, 2025

In the course of the fight Trip managed to break his sword, hide under a lady’s dress, fence with a sausage, and perform such fantastical acrobatics that it’s a miracle he didn’t seriously injure himself.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss