backwards and forwards
Thoroughly; completely, comprehensively.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“She knows the script backwards and forwards.”
“You should study the company manual backwards and forwards before your big interview tomorrow.”
“The professor had researched the historical period so extensively that he knew every nuance of the political conflict backwards and forwards.”
- 01
bend over backwards
To make a great effort; to take extraordinary care; to go to great lengths.
- 02
bring forward
To call up for consideration.
- 03
carry forward
To transfer to a new page, column, ledger, or similar entity.
- 04
come forward
To offer help or information, especially about a crime.
- 05
inch forward
To move forward in a very slow, cautious, and careful way.
- 06
one step forward, two steps back
A situation in which progress is more than offset by adverse developments.
- 07
put forward
To propose for consideration.
- 08
put one's best foot forward
To show oneself in the best or most positive way possible; to make a favorable impression.
Last updated August 10, 2026