to and fro

[too-uhn-froh] / ˈtu ənˈfroʊ /

ADJECTIVE

back and forth

Synonyms

WEAK

backward and forward backwards and forwards forward and back from side to side here and there in and out off and on seesaw up and down zigzag

NOUN

hesitation

Synonyms

WEAK

averseness dawdling delay delaying demurral doubt dubiety equivocation faltering fluctuation fumbling hemming and hawing hesitancy indecision indecisiveness indisposition irresoluteness irresolution misgiving mistrust oscillation pause procrastination qualm reluctance scruple shilly-shally skepticism stammering stumbling stuttering tentativeness timidity timidness unwillingness vacillation wavering

to-and-fro

NOUN

hesitation

Synonyms

WEAK

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.

Slogans are easy, and they sound really tough, but it’s a little different when you get into the to-and-fro.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 20, 2025

The fixture began a turbulent period of to-and-fro between the sides.

From BBC • May 29, 2024

Circe’s paws splayed out on the floor, her head shook to-and-fro and she drooled.

From Washington Times • May 2, 2023

I got into a joking to-and-fro with a friend this week about daylight saving time.

From New York Times • Mar. 18, 2023

There is far less to-and-fro movement between the different groups than happened under capitalism or even in the pre-industrial ages.

From "1984" by George Orwell

to and fro

Example Sentences

Related Words