swaying back and forth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "swaying back and forth" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a motion that oscillates or moves rhythmically from side to side. Example: "The branches of the tree were swaying back and forth in the strong wind."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"One light bulb swaying back and forth.

The New Yorker

The bridge is swaying back and forth.

The New York Times

She tried one after another, swaying back and forth before the mirror, frowning at her reflection.

The New Yorker

The congregants put their arms around one another's shoulders, swaying back and forth in song.

The New York Times

Wearing a white skirt-suit, she grimaced throughout the ceremony, swaying back and forth.

The Guardian

Out in the hallway, Weissman started swaying back and forth, saying, "Something is wrong, something is wrong".

The New York Times

Of jawless lampreys fastened to rocks, hiding among the waterweeds, swaying back and forth in the current.

The New Yorker

Crossing the Verrazano Bridge, the runners looked like moths in front of a long fan, swaying back and forth.

The New Yorker

The brown body appears to be swaying back and forth as it is beaten, helpless as a pendulum.

Independent

With his eyes closed, swaying back and forth, candlelight flickering against his face, Sisay chanted the Lord's Prayer in Geez.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He swayed back and forth slightly.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "swaying back and forth" to vividly describe a rhythmic or gentle oscillating movement. It is suitable for both literal and figurative contexts to add a sense of motion and rhythm to your writing.

Common error

While versatile, "swaying back and forth" might sound too informal or descriptive in strictly technical or scientific writing. Opt for more precise terms like "oscillating" or "reciprocating" when accuracy is paramount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "swaying back and forth" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used as part of a verb construction (e.g., "was swaying"). It describes a specific type of movement characterized by a rhythmic oscillation. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "swaying back and forth" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that describes a rhythmic, oscillating movement. As confirmed by Ludwig, it’s versatile enough for a variety of contexts, though it may be less appropriate in highly formal or technical writing where more precise terms are preferred. The phrase appears most commonly in news media and general descriptive writing, and its purpose is to add vividness and motion to descriptions. While it is a common term, it is important to consider the context when using it, and alternatives such as ""oscillating back and forth"" or ""rocking to and fro"" may be more appropriate in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

oscillating back and forth

Highlights the repetitive and rhythmic nature of the movement, often used in technical contexts.

rocking to and fro

Emphasizes a gentle, back-and-forth motion, often associated with comfort or relaxation.

swinging to and fro

Implies a suspended or hanging object moving rhythmically.

moving from side to side

A more general way to describe lateral movement, lacking the rhythmic connotation of "swaying".

teetering back and forth

Suggests an unstable movement, close to falling or losing balance.

waving back and forth

Often used to describe a flag or similar object moving in the wind.

undulating rhythmically

Describes a smooth, wave-like motion, often in a fluid or flexible object.

seesawing back and forth

Specifically refers to a balanced, alternating up-and-down motion.

shaking back and forth

Indicates a rapid, often involuntary movement.

bobbing back and forth

Implies a quick, up-and-down movement, often in water.

FAQs

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

You can use "swaying back and forth" to describe the motion of various objects or even people. For example, "The trees were swaying back and forth in the wind" or "The dancer was swaying back and forth to the music".

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

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "rocking to and fro", "oscillating back and forth", or "moving from side to side".

Is "swaying back and forth" a formal or informal expression?

"Swaying back and forth" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for most contexts. However, in very formal or technical writing, more precise terms might be preferred.

When is it appropriate to use "swaying back and forth" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to convey a gentle, rhythmic, or oscillating movement. It can be used literally, such as describing a tree in the wind, or figuratively, such as describing someone's emotional state.