"Going back and forth" is an idiomatic expression commonly used to describe a repeated or reciprocal movement between two or more locations, ideas, or opinions. The phrase typically denotes a back-and-forth motion or continuous alternation between two opposing positions, activities, or states. It can be used both literally, to describe physical movement, and figuratively, to convey the oscillation between different thoughts, decisions, or actions.
In a literal sense, "went back and forth" refers to repeatedly moving or traveling between two or more places or points. This could involve going to and fro, shuttling back and forth, or repeatedly traversing a specific route. For instance, one might say, "She went back and forth between her house and the grocery store several times to pick up all the items she needed."
Figuratively, "went back and forth" commonly characterizes the act of oscillating between different ideas, decisions, or opinions. This expression suggests a state of uncertainty, contemplation, or deliberation where the person or group involved cannot settle on a particular position. For example, someone might say, "The group went back and forth about which restaurant to choose for dinner, unable to reach a unanimous decision."
Overall, "went back and forth" embodies the notion of repeated movement or oscillation, either physical or metaphorical, illustrating a series of alternations between two or more points, ideas, decisions, or positions.
