Okay to eat less than 1200 one day, then compensate the next?

From reading everything, I am curious and don't want to do any damage to my metabolism.

If I am supposed to be eating 1200 per day, is it okay to eat 1000 today and 1400 tomorrow...or a couple days at 1000 and then a big third day? Would the big meal correct any "damage" if there even is any?

Sorry if this is a dumb or offensive question..just wondering if 1200 / day (or whatever someone's target is) is the ONLY safe way.

THANK YOU! :)

It is best to get the minimum every day and adjust any additional intake according to exercise and hunger.  If you're sick that's a different story, but getting in the habit of compensating one day to the next is just not a good idea imo.