circulating back and forth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "circulating back and forth" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the movement or exchange of ideas, information, or objects between two or more parties in a continuous manner. Example: "The discussion was circulating back and forth among the team members, with everyone contributing their thoughts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Influenza pandemics, sometimes with tremendous mortality, can arise from changes to influenza viruses circulating back and forth around the world.

BioMed Research International

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Another paradox is that many of these new "permanent residents" do not use the visas to settle in the United States; instead, they circulate back and forth as temporary workers — restoring a pattern that had prevailed until the early 1990s, when the United States began trying to seal the border.

The New York Times

His placement of the videos in the gallery also keeps us circulating, going back and forth between them.

The Guardian - Arts

The back-and-forth continues for weeks.

The New York Times

There is back-and-forth on this.

Science Magazine

It's a back-and-forth conversation.

Los Angeles Times

Moreover, as shown in the work from Engbersen, Leerkes, Grabowska-Lusinska, Snel, and Burgers (2013), a more diffuse pattern of migration follows from the institutional context of the European Union, with a large share of circulating migration, where migrants move back and forth between the country of origin and a country where work can be found.

Comparative Migration Studies

Back and forth.

The New York Times

We went back and forth".

The New Yorker

They speculated back and forth.

The New York Times

"Guys go back and forth.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the iterative exchange of information or ideas, use "circulating back and forth" to convey a sense of ongoing dialogue and refinement. For example, "The draft proposal was circulating back and forth among team members for revisions".

Common error

Avoid using "circulating back and forth" when simpler terms like "moving" or "traveling" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "circulating back and forth" functions as a verb phrase describing a repeated or continuous movement or exchange between two points. Ludwig examples show its use in both physical and abstract contexts, such as the movement of viruses or the exchange of ideas.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "circulating back and forth" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that describes a repeated movement or exchange between two or more entities. According to Ludwig AI, its appropriateness spans scientific and news contexts. When aiming to express iterative movement or interaction, consider using this phrase. While examples show its usage in various contexts, simpler alternatives like ""going back and forth"" or ""moving to and fro"" may be more appropriate in certain situations. The phrase is deemed neutral, suiting both formal writing and less formal conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

going back and forth

This is a more general and common way to express movement or exchange in opposite directions, similar to "circulating back and forth".

moving to and fro

This alternative emphasizes a physical movement in opposite directions, similar to "circulating back and forth" but less focused on a closed loop.

exchanging back and forth

This alternative focuses on the act of exchange, implying a reciprocal action.

shuttling between

This phrase suggests a regular movement between two points, similar to a shuttle service.

oscillating between

This option highlights a rhythmic or cyclical movement between two states or positions.

alternating between

Focuses on the change from one to another repeatedly.

traversing back and forth

Emphasizes the act of crossing or traveling in both directions.

commuting between

Suggests a regular journey between two places, often home and work.

revolving around

This alternative suggests a circular movement around a central point, somewhat related to the 'circulating' aspect.

bouncing between

Implies a rapid and somewhat erratic movement between two points.

FAQs

What does "circulating back and forth" mean?

The phrase "circulating back and forth" describes a situation where something, like information or objects, is moving or being exchanged repeatedly between two or more points or entities in a somewhat cyclical or iterative manner. It implies a continuous exchange or movement.

How can I use "circulating back and forth" in a sentence?

You can use "circulating back and forth" to describe the movement of objects, the exchange of ideas, or the flow of information. For example: "The documents were "going back and forth" between departments for approval." or "Ideas were "exchanging back and forth" during the brainstorming session".

What are some alternatives to "circulating back and forth"?

Alternatives to "circulating back and forth" include "moving to and fro", "going back and forth", or "exchanging back and forth". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "circulating back and forth" formal or informal?

"Circulating back and forth" is generally considered neutral in register and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although simpler phrases might be preferred in casual conversation. Its appropriateness depends on the specific audience and the overall tone of your writing.