push back and forth

USAGE SUMMARY

"push back and forth" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when describing a repetitive action, such as swinging on a swing. Example: She spent the afternoon on the playground, pushing back and forth on the swing.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

In the afternoon, both sides push back and forth in this area.

The New York Times

A "scrum" is a rugby play in which the two lines push back and forth to try to gain control of the ball.

The New York Times

It is not the sort of dispute in which enemies push back and forth over a line until they grow tired.

The Economist

There has been a lot of push back and forth on whether this is a topic that really needs consideration and really needs to be included in this framework," he said.

The Guardian

Because neither Mr. Assad nor the rebels are strong enough to win, the battle lines push back and forth, rolling across communities in waves of destruction that kill thousands but accomplish little else.

The New York Times

We'll continue to watch with interest as Google+ matures and certainly the two Internet giants will continue to push back and forth, but for now it seems safe to say that search marketers can continue to maintain their focus on Google, and brand marketers can keep trying to figure out how to socialize with customers on Facebook.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

When he was caught, he was bound, pummeled, and pushed back and forth between hostile captors; he thought a crowd would tear him apart.

The New York Times

Over recent weeks, boats full of migrants have been pushed back and forth between the navies of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, with no country willing to take them in.

The Guardian

Outside, the young Sean O'Casey, who couldn't afford the shilling admission fee, was pushed back and forth by what he called "Gaelic Leaguers foaming at the mouth".

The Guardian

If you're not in a hot streak, you might be pushing back and forth, but a lot of things you can't explain, and that's one of those things you can't explain".

The New York Times - Sports

A bare-chested prisoner, suspended upside down from a rope tied to his ankles, is pushed back and forth by brutish guards with clubs as if he were a human piñata.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "push back and forth" when describing a physical struggle or a debate where participants actively resist each other's positions. This phrase effectively conveys the exertion and opposition involved.

Common error

Avoid using "push back and forth" in purely abstract contexts where the sense of physical effort or resistance is absent. Opt for alternatives like "discuss" or "exchange views" when describing purely intellectual exchanges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "push back and forth" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe reciprocal actions or forces. As Ludwig AI shows, it can depict physical struggles, negotiations, or debates where active resistance is involved.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

24%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "push back and forth" effectively describes a reciprocal exchange of force, arguments, or actions, often implying resistance or struggle. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It's most commonly found in News & Media contexts, with usage also appearing in Wiki and Science-related content. While the phrase holds a neutral tone suitable for diverse applications, overusing it in purely abstract contexts can diminish its impact. Therefore, opt for alternatives like "move to and fro", "oscillate", or "trade blows" to ensure precision in more formal or technical discussions. Remembering these guidelines will enable clear and impactful communication, reinforcing the strength of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move to and fro

Emphasizes a regular, rhythmic movement between two points, unlike "push back and forth" which can imply resistance or conflict.

oscillate

Suggests a regular fluctuation or vibration, often used in technical contexts, whereas "push back and forth" is more general.

seesaw

Implies an alternating up-and-down movement or a situation characterized by alternating changes.

yo-yo

Conveys a back-and-forth movement or a fluctuating pattern, suggesting instability or indecision.

trade blows

Specifically refers to a reciprocal exchange of hits or attacks, typically in a fight or competition. It's more confrontational than "push back and forth".

bandy words

Suggests a quick and often contentious exchange of words or arguments.

haggle

Refers to bargaining or negotiating over a price or terms, implying a back-and-forth exchange of offers.

alternate

Describes things occurring or succeeding one another in a regular pattern, but it lacks the sense of force or effort implied in "push back and forth".

reciprocate

Involves returning a feeling or action, implying mutual exchange, though less specific about the nature of the action.

contend

To argue or struggle to overcome challenges in order to prove something.

FAQs

What does "push back and forth" mean?

The phrase "push back and forth" describes a situation where two or more parties are engaged in a reciprocal exchange of force, arguments, or actions, often implying resistance or struggle.

What can I say instead of "push back and forth"?

You can use alternatives like "move to and fro", "oscillate", or "trade blows", depending on the context.

Is "push back and forth" formal or informal?

"Push back and forth" is generally considered neutral in formality. It can be used in news reports, general writing, and even some informal contexts, but might not be suitable for highly formal academic or business documents.

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

Here's an example: "During the negotiation, the two sides "pushed back and forth" on the key issues before reaching a compromise."