Definition
转来转去 describes a back-and-forth or circular motion, either literally (pacing, walking around) or figuratively (turning something over in your mind). It's a fixed four-character expression (AABB pattern) used as a verb phrase. You'll hear it for physical aimless movement and for indecision or repetitive thinking.
v.p.
to pace back and forthto walk around aimlesslyto keep revolving (in mind)to think repeatedly without conclusion
Examples
- 转来转去，。Tā zài fángjiān lǐ zhuǎn lái zhuǎn qù, hǎoxiàng zài děng shénme rén.He was pacing back and forth in the room, as if waiting for someone.
- 转来转去。Zhège wèntí wǒ zhuǎn lái zhuǎn qù xiǎng le hǎo jǐ biàn háishì bù míngbai.I've turned this question over in my mind many times and still don't understand it.
- ，转来转去。Nà ge sījī bù zhīdào lù, zài shízìlùkǒu zhuǎn lái zhuǎn qù.That driver didn't know the way and kept driving around the intersection.
Browse more HSK 7-9 words or search the full 43,000-word dictionary.