toss back and forth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "toss back and forth" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of exchanging ideas, opinions, or items in a back-and-forth manner, often in discussions or debates. Example: "During the meeting, we tossed back and forth various ideas on how to improve our marketing strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

they are still standing, along Vesper. of the easy, effortless toss back and forth.

The New Yorker

They eventually switched to a basketball, according to Sen. Joe Manchin III (D-W.Va)., because it was easier to toss back and forth.

The Washington Post

We had a little rock that we would toss back and forth as we walked.

Huffington Post

Practicing living in the present with our heart instead of letting our thoughts toss back and forth from past to future, one thought after another, is the essence of heartfulness.

Huffington Post

Add half of your Crispix mixture and toss back and forth.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Flaming missiles were tossed back and forth, bright and yellow in the gathering dusk.

The New Yorker

There's a sense of ideas being tossed back and forth, interrogated, and tested for weakness.

The Guardian - Music

In this windblown settlement, people have watched Sakhalin tossed back and forth by tides of war.

The New York Times

There are a few nice touches, like a softball being tossed back and forth on a train packed with people.

The New York Times

I feel like I'm on the undulating surface of the rippling ocean being tossed back and forth between happiness, gratitude, melancholy, and grief".

Independent

First, they can easily form in the gaps between sliding rocks or between pebbles tossed back and forth by waves and tides.

MIT Technology Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "toss back and forth", consider the context to ensure the imagery of a light, somewhat casual exchange is appropriate. It's suitable for describing conversations or the movement of physical objects in a non-serious manner.

Common error

Avoid using "toss back and forth" in highly formal or professional writing where a more precise or serious tone is required. Opt for alternatives like "exchange" or "circulate" to maintain formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "toss back and forth" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating an exchange or movement in alternating directions. Ludwig examples show it describing both physical actions and abstract concepts like ideas. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "toss back and forth" is a phrasal verb used to describe a reciprocal exchange, be it physical or abstract. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It's more common in informal settings like news articles and general web content, and less appropriate for formal or professional writing. When writing, consider the context and desired tone, opting for alternatives like "exchange back and forth" in more formal situations. While grammatically sound, its frequency is rare, making careful consideration of its appropriateness essential.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exchange back and forth

Focuses on the act of swapping something repeatedly, implying a more deliberate action than the original phrase.

pass to and fro

Emphasizes the movement from one point to another and then back again, highlighting the directional aspect.

shuttle back and forth

Suggests a more rapid and constant movement or exchange between two points.

alternate between

Highlights the act of switching or alternating between two options or states.

bandy about

Implies a casual and often public discussion or exchange of ideas, sometimes without serious consideration.

kick around

Similar to 'bandy about', suggesting a casual and informal discussion, often related to ideas or proposals.

juggle between

Conveys the idea of managing or dealing with multiple things simultaneously, often implying difficulty.

trade between

Highlights the exchange of goods, ideas, or services between two or more parties.

relay between

Focuses on the act of passing something from one person or point to another in a sequence.

bounce ideas around

Specifically refers to the informal exchange of ideas in a group setting.

FAQs

What does "toss back and forth" mean?

The phrase "toss back and forth" refers to exchanging something repeatedly between two or more parties, be it physical objects, ideas, or arguments. It implies a somewhat informal or casual exchange.

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

You can use alternatives like "exchange back and forth", "pass to and fro", or "bounce ideas around" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "toss back and forth" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "toss back and forth" is generally more suited for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "exchange back and forth" to maintain a professional tone.

How does "toss back and forth" differ from "discuss"?

"Discuss" implies a more structured and deliberate conversation, whereas "toss back and forth" suggests a more casual and potentially less organized exchange of ideas or objects. The former is more formal, while the latter has an informal connotation.