Hither and thither

usgb
adverb

To move in many directions without a specific purpose or order.

The frightened bird was flying hither and thither, trying to escape.
Visual representation of "hither and thither" - To move in many directions without a specific purpose or order

Often appears as...

  • flew hither and thither
  • moved hither and thither
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "hither and thither"
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Archaic Usage

The phrase is outdated and rarely used in modern English, but can be found in literature.

Illustration for Archaic Usage
In the classic novel, characters went hither and thither in the bustling marketplace.
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Lack of Purpose

'Hither and thither' implies movement without a clear goal, often in confusion or panic.

Illustration for Lack of Purpose
The lost tourists wandered hither and thither, seeking the museum.
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Use in Narratives

The phrase sets a scene of chaos or disarray in stories, to help visualize unpredictable action.

Illustration for Use in Narratives
Leaves blew hither and thither in the storm.
Visual representation of the word "Hither and thither"

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