Fall between two stools

usgb
phrase

Fail to be accepted or accommodated by two groups or categories because one is attempting to satisfy both.

Trying to serve both our existing customers and a new market, we fell between two stools and pleased no one.
Visual representation of "fall between two stools" - Fail to be accepted or accommodated by two groups or categories because one is attempting to satisfy both

Often appears as...

  • fall between two stools due to
  • trying to fall between two stools

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "fall between two stools"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Choosing Sides

If you try to please everyone in two opposing groups, you might end up pleasing no one.

Illustration for Choosing Sides
He tried to support both teams, but fell between two stools.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Indecision Risk

Being unable to decide between two options can lead to failure in achieving either goal.

Illustration for Indecision Risk
By not choosing a clear career path, she fell between two stools.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Moderation Caution

Sometimes, trying to find a middle ground or compromise can result in an outcome that is unsatisfactory for all.

Illustration for Moderation Caution
In trying to mediate the argument, he fell between two stools.
Visual representation of the word "Fall between two stools"

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