back-and-forth

1 of 2

noun

ˈbak-ən(d)-ˈfȯrth 

: discussion sense 1, give-and-take

also : exchange sense 1

back and forth

2 of 2

adverb

: backward and forward

also : between two places or persons

Synonyms

Noun

• barter
• commutation
• dicker
• exchange
• quid pro quo
• swap
• trade
• trade-off
• truck

Examples of back-and-forth in a Sentence

Noun

after the usual back-and-forth of official gifts, the two leaders entered into a serious discussion

the others listened with relish to the back-and-forth between the two noted professors

Adverb

The chair rocked back and forth.

The children were shuttled back and forth between school and home.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

During the back-and-forth, officials and the audience grew exasperated over the myriad items up for debate in what was merely an advisory decision by the commission. —Emma Hall, Sacramento Bee, 1 Mar. 2025

None of the back-and-forth over timing erases the fact that Crowley has a steep uphill climb to get her job back. —David Zahniser, Los Angeles Times, 1 Mar. 2025

Adverb

Split Fiction jumps back and forth between sci-fi and fantasy gameplay in a uniquely creative way that according to these reviews, is simply unlike anything else in this industry that is endlessly trying to clone big genres or just keep pumping out sequels. —Paul Tassi, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025

Sandler screamed, and the pair bantered back and forth. —David Oliver, USA TODAY, 3 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1941, in the meaning defined above

Adverb

1613, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for back-and-forth

• fourth
• henceforth
• thenceforth