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Definitions

back and forth

[bak-uhn-fawrth, -fohrth, -uhnd-] / ˈbæk ənˈfɔrθ, -ˈfoʊrθ, -ənd- /
ADVERB
backward and forward
Synonyms
WEAK
alternating backwards and forwards from pillar to post from side to side in and out seesaw to and fro up and down vacillating

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After some back and forth, it suggested monitoring the path of bond yields and stocks after an upcoming jobs report to decide whether I would buy the dip or “fade the move” around the report.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

Listening to the two friends banter back and forth like the “Odd Couple” of jazz, it is very clear why.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

She went back and forth to doctors for six years before finding a GP who said she was likely to have endometriosis.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

On a recent Sunday afternoon, a bald eagle lazily flew back and forth over the spot where Semple Run feeds into Conococheague Creek.

From Slate • Apr. 27, 2026

He paced back and forth, then turned on Torak.

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver