pivot back and forth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pivot back and forth" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe a person or object that is moving in a regular, back-and-forth motion, such as a pendulum. For example, "The patient's foot pivoted back and forth as the doctor examined it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Booyah raised more than $24.5 million from top-tier venture firms like Kleiner Perkins and Accel but it pivoted back and forth between Facebook and mobile platforms with varying success.

TechCrunch

A red rudder pivots back and forth below the keel of ship, stirring the still air in the store, a prop shop called Jadis that first opened in Santa Monica in 1976.

Los Angeles Times

His statement was the latest pivot in back-and-forth negotiations over a transfer of power, even as Mr. Saleh tries to frame the terms under which he would leave.

The New York Times

But the Florida senator quickly pivoted to his talking points, going on to repeat the same answer three times in a row in a brutal back-and-forth.

The Guardian

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

Sometime in the third quarter of Game 5, he scurried into position, near the foul line, then pivoted blindly, back to the basket, back and forth, until, finally, he spun around and upward into a tilting fallaway.

The New Yorker

"Still, you're navigating and pivoting all the time — it's like a football player carrying the ball back and forth," Gates said.

The Washington Post

Back and forth.

The New York Times

They speculated back and forth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pivot back and forth" when you want to describe a physical movement that involves rotating on an axis while also moving in opposite directions. This is appropriate when capturing a literal action or a strategic change that involves revisiting previous positions.

Common error

Avoid using "pivot back and forth" when a simple back-and-forth motion without rotation is intended. If there's no axis of rotation, stick to phrases like "move back and forth" or "shuttle back and forth" for accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pivot back and forth" functions as a verbal phrase, describing an action involving rotation around a point while simultaneously moving in opposite directions or changing between options. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "pivot back and forth" is grammatically sound, it is not frequently encountered in common usage. According to Ludwig AI, it's considered grammatically correct and usable in written English, but is rarely used. This expression describes an action involving rotation on an axis while moving in opposite directions, or changing strategies. When a simpler, non-rotational back-and-forth motion is intended, alternatives like "move back and forth" or "shuttle back and forth" might be more appropriate. Because of its low frequency of use, it's important to consider your audience and the specific context to ensure clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

swing back and forth

Indicates a pendulum-like motion, suggesting a regular and predictable pattern of movement.

oscillate to and fro

Highlights a rhythmic, wavering movement, often suggesting a less controlled or precise action than "pivot".

shift from side to side

Describes a lateral movement, emphasizing the change in position from one side to another.

alternate repeatedly

Emphasizes the repetitive switching between two states or directions, rather than a smooth pivoting motion.

seesaw

A concise term referring to movement up and down or back and forth like a seesaw.

move reciprocally

Focuses on the mutual or alternating nature of the movement, rather than the specific pivoting action.

yo-yo

Describes a cyclical up-and-down or back-and-forth movement, often implying a lack of progress or resolution.

fluctuate between extremes

Implies a variation between two contrasting states or positions, suggesting instability or indecision.

waver erratically

Emphasizes the unsteady and unpredictable nature of the movement, suggesting a lack of control or direction.

vacillate

Focuses on indecisiveness or a lack of commitment, where one repeatedly changes their mind or course of action.

FAQs

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

You can use "pivot back and forth" to describe a physical action, like "The dancer had to pivot back and forth to maintain her balance". It can also be used metaphorically, such as, "The company had to pivot back and forth with its strategy to stay competitive".

What does "pivot back and forth" mean?

The phrase "pivot back and forth" describes a situation where someone or something rotates around a central point while moving in opposite directions or changing between different options, strategies, or positions repeatedly.

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

Some alternatives to "pivot back and forth" include "alternate repeatedly", "swing back and forth", or "seesaw". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "pivot back and forth"?

Yes, the phrase "pivot back and forth" is grammatically correct, though it's usage is less common. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and can be used in written English.