runs back and forth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "runs back and forth" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that moves repeatedly between two points or engages in a repetitive action. Example: "The dog runs back and forth in the yard, chasing after the ball."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

She runs back and forth, crying out James's name.

The New Yorker

He runs back and forth, heavily limping due to a bullet wound in his leg.

The Guardian - Opinion

M86 The least expensive route per rider in the system runs back and forth on 86th Street.

The New York Times

They get two rooms in a hotel in Des Moines, and Earl runs back and forth, alternately making love to Dorothy and interpreting his song for the persona.

The New Yorker

She pays a physical price, when one day at a rally she is hit by a farm truck that runs back and forth three times over her legs.

The Economist

From there, you either walk a half-hour across the sands or hop aboard a Sandormen, or tractor bus, that runs back and forth to the tip.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

And then we hear footsteps, running, back-and-forth.

The New York Times

Then run back and forth for forty-eight minutes".

The New Yorker

It was running back and forth above his study.

The New York Times - Books

That's all they ever do: run back and forth.

The New York Times - Arts

Every hour, I ran back and forth between our hotels.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "runs back and forth" to describe literal physical movement or to illustrate a repetitive process involving oscillation between two states or conditions.

Common error

Avoid using "runs back and forth" when a more precise verb (e.g., "shuttles", "oscillates", "alternates") would better convey the nature of the movement or exchange.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "runs back and forth" is as a verb phrase. It describes a repeated action of moving from one place to another and then returning. As Ludwig explains, it's a correct and usable phrase to describe the act of repeatedly moving between two points.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

14%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "runs back and forth" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe repetitive movement or alternating processes, as supported by Ludwig. It is considered grammatically correct and acceptable for use across diverse contexts, with the primary usage being observed in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, it is important to consider the specific context and choose the most precise verb to convey the intended meaning. Be mindful that there may be scenarios where alternatives such as "shuttles" or "oscillates" are more suitable, according to Ludwig's writing guidance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

running back and forth

The gerund form of the original phrase, often used as a noun modifier.

races back and forth

Emphasizes speed and competition while maintaining the essence of moving repeatedly between two points.

moves to and fro

A more formal way of expressing movement between two points.

courses back and forth

Implies a route or path that involves repeated travel between two points.

walks back and forth

Indicates a slower, more deliberate movement between two points.

progresses back and forth

Highlights advancement or development while retaining the concept of reciprocal movement.

turn back and forth

Similar to "turns back and forth", but emphasizes the action of turning.

turns back and forth

Focuses on rotation or change in direction between two points.

cycle back and forth

Suggests a recurring pattern or process moving between two states.

undergoes back and forth

Suggests a process or experience involving repeated interaction or exchange.

FAQs

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

You can use "runs back and forth" to describe physical movement, as in "The dog runs back and forth along the fence", or to describe a process that alternates, like "Negotiations runs back and forth between progress and setbacks".

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

Alternatives include "moves to and fro", "shuttles", "oscillates", or "alternates", depending on the specific context.

Is "runs back and forth" formal or informal?

"Runs back and forth" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both informal and many formal contexts. However, more formal situations might benefit from alternatives like "moves to and fro".

What's the difference between "runs back and forth" and "running back and forth"?

"Runs back and forth" is a verb phrase describing the action itself, while "running back and forth" (the gerund form) can act as a noun. For example, "He runs back and forth to warm up," versus "His running back and forth distracts me."