Great minds think alike

Definitions

Agreement or similarity in thoughts or ideas
Expressing that two or more people have come to the same conclusion or have similar ways of thinking
Complimenting someone's intelligence or creativity
Praising someone for their original or innovative ideas, implying that they are on the same level as other great minds
Humorously acknowledging a coincidence
Jokingly remarking that two or more people have had the same thought or idea at the same time, implying that it is not surprising due to their great minds

Examples of Great minds think alike

Two renowned intellectuals, Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking, both proposed the theory of relativity.

When two highly intelligent and accomplished individuals come up with similar ideas or solutions, we say that "great minds think alike" because it suggests that creative and innovative thoughts often result from having a high level of intelligence and intellectual capability.
My friend and I both decided to quit smoking last week.

In this context, the idiom implies that my friend and I, both intelligent and rational individuals, have independently made the same wise decision to quit smoking, based on our knowledge of the health hazards associated with smoking.
After hearing Bill Gates' opinion on education reform, I realized that I had already formed similar ideas in my mind.

The use of this idiom here highlights the fact that Bill Gates, being a highly intelligent and experienced individual in the field of education reform, has generated similar thoughts and opinions in the speaker's mind, either through personal experience or through his public statements and writings on the topic.
In order to expand our business, we are looking for investors who think like our current investors.

This idiom implies that the company's current investors are intelligent and rational individuals who possess high levels of business acumen and financial intuition. The company, by seeking investors with similar qualities, is hoping to find individuals who will share similar perspectives and ideologies, resulting in collective growth and success.
Jane and John both came up with the same idea for a new product at the same time.

This idiom is used to describe situations where two people independently come up with the same thought or idea. The underlying meaning is that intelligent and thoughtful individuals often arrive at similar conclusions or solutions based on their individual knowledge and experiences. This idiom is often used to indicate a sense of admiration for the intelligence and creativity of two or more people.
Rachel and Mark both volunteered to lead the same committee without discussing it with each other.

This idiom is used to describe scenarios where two people unexpectedly come to the same decision or course of action without any previous discussion or agreement. The phrase implies that both individuals have similar characteristics, experiences, or values that lead them to make similar choices, without any apparent external influence. This idiom is often used to emphasize the similarity between two individuals, and may suggest the presence of shared characteristics or priorities.
Maria and Juan both recognized the complexities of the problem and proposed innovative solutions that were accepted by the board.

This idiom highlights the fact that two people with similar levels of intelligence and insight can approach a problem or challenge in a similar way, arriving at complementary or mutually supportive solutions. The use of this idiom emphasizes the value and effectiveness of independent thinking, as well as the importance of collaboration and shared decision-making.
In the midst of the chaotic situation, both Sarah and Michael instinctively took charge and assured the safety of the group.

This idiom is used to describe situations where individuals display similar instinctive problem-solving abilities in response to a crisis or challenging situation. The phrase implies that the shared characteristics or experiences of these individuals enable them to respond quickly and effectively to unexpected events, providing guidance and support to those around them. This idiom often highlights the importance of instinctive, intuitive thinking in crisis management and leadership, and may suggest that certain individuals are better suited to managing unpredictable situations due to their inherent abilities and prior experiences.

Conclusion

This idiom is often used in a positive and lighthearted manner to express agreement or compliment someone's intelligence. It can also be used humorously to acknowledge a coincidence. It conveys the idea that great minds think alike and are capable of coming up with similar thoughts or ideas.

Origin of "Great minds think alike"

The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the mid-17th century. It is often attributed to the German philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who wrote in his play "Götz von Berlichingen" in 1773: "Great minds think alike, though fools seldom differ." However, there is evidence of similar phrases being used earlier in history, such as the Latin phrase "magna mentalia concurrunt" which translates to "great minds run together."

The idiom gained popularity in the 19th century and has since become a common expression in English. It is often used in various contexts, from casual conversations to academic discussions. Its widespread usage highlights the universal understanding of the concept that great minds have similar thoughts or ideas.