PhrasesHub

We see eye to eye

    Definitions

      • agree on something
        To have the same opinion or viewpoint on a particular issue or topic; to be in complete understanding or harmony with someone else's thoughts or ideas.

      • have a good relationship
        To have a good rapport or understanding with someone; to be on good terms or have a strong connection with another person.

      • see things in the same way
        To perceive or understand things in a similar manner as someone else; to have a shared perspective or outlook on a situation or issue.

    Examples of We see eye to eye

    • John and Sarah see eye to eye when it comes to their career goals.

      This idiom is used to describe two people who have similar opinions, beliefs, or perspectives on a particular matter. The phrase "see eye to eye" implies that both individuals have a shared vision or understanding of the situation. In this example, John and Sarah have identical career aspirations.

    • The two politicians had a heated debate, but in the end, they managed to see eye to eye on the issue.

      This example shows that even if people have opposing views, they can still find common ground and come to a mutual understanding. After a disagreement, the politicians found a way to see eye to eye on the topic at hand.

    • My boss and I have been working together for years, and we still see eye to eye on most things.

      This example highlights the longevity of a successful working relationship. The speaker and their boss have been collaborating for an extended period, and they continue to share a common perspective on various aspects of their job.

    • Despite their cultural differences, the two friends managed to see eye to eye on the importance of family values.

      This example illustrates that people from diverse backgrounds can still find common ground. The friends may have grown up in different parts of the world, but they both recognize the significance of family traditions and beliefs.

    • The CEO and the board members saw eye to eye on the need for a company restructuring.

      This example shows that high-ranking executives can agree on major decisions. The CEO and the board members shared a consensus that a restructuring was necessary for the company's success.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "we see eye to eye" is used to express a sense of agreement, understanding, and connection between individuals. It can refer to having the same opinion or viewpoint on a certain topic, having a good relationship, or seeing things in a similar way. In all these contexts, the idiom conveys a sense of harmony and compatibility between two or more people.

    Origin of "We see eye to eye"

    The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories. One theory suggests that it comes from the idea of two people standing face to face, looking each other in the eye, and being able to see things from the same perspective. Another theory proposes that it may have originated from the ancient practice of shaking hands to signify an agreement or understanding between individuals.

    Regardless of its exact origins, the idiom has been in use since at least the 17th century, with the earliest recorded usage appearing in a 1677 work by John Dryden. Over time, the idiom has become a common phrase in everyday language, used to describe a variety of situations where two or more people are in agreement or have a strong connection.

    In conclusion, "we see eye to eye" is a versatile and widely used idiom that conveys a sense of agreement and understanding between individuals. Its origins may be uncertain, but its meaning and usage have remained consistent for centuries.