In Chinese culture, where loyalty (忠, zhōng) and clear group affiliation are often highly valued, being a 骑墙派 is seen as a significant character flaw. It suggests untrustworthiness and a primary focus on self-preservation or personal gain above principles or relationships. A useful Western comparison is the term “fence-sitter,” which also describes an undecided person. However, 骑墙派 carries a much stronger and more negative weight. While a “fence-sitter” might be seen as simply indecisive or cautious, a 骑墙派 is actively opportunistic. They are not passively waiting; they are actively playing a waiting game to maximize their own benefit. The term is closer in spirit to a “trimmer” or a political “opportunist” who shifts their allegiance according to the prevailing political winds. This reflects a cultural expectation that in important matters, a person of integrity should have the courage to take a clear stance (表明立场, biǎomíng lìchǎng), even at personal risk.
This term is frequently used in various contexts, almost always as a criticism.
The connotation is consistently negative and informal. You would use it to criticize someone, but likely not to their face unless you intended to be confrontational.