ENGLISH
REFERENCE

backwards and forwards

idiom
Meaning

Thoroughly; completely, comprehensively.


Examples
SIMPLE

She knows the script backwards and forwards.

CONTEXTUAL

You should study the company manual backwards and forwards before your big interview tomorrow.

COMPLEX

The professor had researched the historical period so extensively that he knew every nuance of the political conflict backwards and forwards.

Anchors to
Related idioms1entry
  1. 01

    bend over backwards

    To make a great effort; to take extraordinary care; to go to great lengths.

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