1
general::
Also, backward(s) and forward(s). To and fro, moving in one direction and then the opposite and so making no progress in either. For example, The clock pendulum swung back and forth. The term is Also used figuratively, as in The lawyers argued the point backwards and forwards for an entire week. [c. 1600]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): back and forth
in one direction and then the other repeatedly; from one place to another repeatedly. • We tossed the ball back and forth between us. • The tiger paced back and forth in its cage.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs