weave back and forth

USAGE SUMMARY

"weave back and forth" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a motion where something is quickly changing direction or it can also be used figuratively to describe an idea that shifts between two points several times. For example: "The speaker weaved back and forth between the two policies, unable to decide which one to support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

We had to weave back and forth across the surface to avoid them.

The New Yorker

The target unit could weave back and forth, and the pursuit unit would keep up with it.

Cornell University

I weave back and forth across the road in a vain attempt to reduce the incline, but I just go even slower.

The Guardian - Travel

As the show progresses, we weave back and forth between opposing ideologies and varied couples, with the Russians scheming inside the plush rezidentura and the Americans fighting back from the spare F.B.I. headquarters; our sympathies can't settle on anyone.

The New Yorker

When the chain extension of copolymer at the interface is examined, the block copolymer chains are extended to each corresponding homopolymer phase across the interface, whereas the alternating copolymers lie on the interface and the random copolymers weave back and forth across the interface.

Polymer

In the sporting regulations, the F.I.A. has made a change to a rule that allowed drivers to make only one defensive move — and not to weave back and forth — to try to protect their position from a driver attempting to pass.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

I saw Hannah first, weaving back and forth.

The New York Times - Travel

They see drunken drivers weaving back and forth.

The New York Times - Travel

From there, a steep trail picks up, weaving back and forth across cliff face and ravine to the summit.

The New York Times - Travel

She spent the first act weaving back and forth in an effort to keep up with the action.

The New York Times

The path had been hard to follow, weaving back and forth beneath a canopy of pine trees.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "weave back and forth" when you want to convey a sense of repeated movement or shifting between two points, whether physical or abstract. For instance, use it to describe a driver swerving on the road or an argument that keeps revisiting the same points.

Common error

While "weave back and forth" is generally acceptable, in highly formal writing, consider more precise synonyms like "oscillate" or "fluctuate" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "weave back and forth" typically functions as a verb phrase, describing an action of moving or shifting repeatedly between two points. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "weave back and forth" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe repeated movement or shifting between two points or concepts. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for various contexts, although more formal synonyms might be preferred in highly academic or professional settings. Common contexts include news and media, academia, and general writing. Remember to avoid overuse in extremely formal contexts and consider synonyms like ""oscillate"" or ""fluctuate"" for a more refined tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

oscillate

A more concise, single-word alternative that captures the movement between two points.

fluctuate

Implies a less regular, more random back-and-forth movement or change.

alternate

Suggests a regular, repeating sequence between two states or positions.

shuttle

Conveys a sense of moving rapidly and repeatedly between two locations.

zig-zag

Focuses on the sharp, angular changes in direction.

crisscross

Describes a pattern of intersecting lines or paths.

yo-yo

Suggests an up-and-down motion, similar to a yo-yo toy.

seesaw

Implies an alternating up-and-down motion, often between two entities.

move to and fro

A more formal and literary way of describing back-and-forth movement.

swing to and fro

Describes a pendulous or arcing back-and-forth motion.

FAQs

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

You can use "weave back and forth" to describe physical movement, as in "The car was "weaving back and forth" across the road", or abstract concepts, such as "The discussion "weaved back and forth" between the two main issues".

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

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "oscillate", "fluctuate", or "alternate" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "weaved back and forth" or "wove back and forth"?

Both "weaved" and "wove" are past tense forms of "weave". While "wove" is the older and more traditionally correct form, "weaved" is also acceptable, especially in modern usage. Therefore both ""weaved back and forth"" and "wove back and forth" are correct, but "wove" can be more common in formal writing.

Can "weave back and forth" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "weave back and forth" can be used metaphorically to describe ideas, arguments, or narratives that repeatedly shift between different points or perspectives.