on the same wavelength — to think in a similar way to someone else, or to understand them easily because you share the same feelings and ideas
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: to think in a similar way to someone else, or to understand them easily because you share the same feelings and ideas
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɒn ðə seɪm ˈweɪvlɛŋθ/
Example Sentences
- My dog and I are so on the same wavelength that he starts wagging his tail the moment I even think about walks.
- During the group project, my teammate and I were immediately on the same wavelength about how to organize the presentation.
- It's hard to work with him because we're just never on the same wavelength — he wants order, I want chaos.
on the same wavelength
ADJECTIVE[/ɒn ðə seɪm ˈweɪvlɛŋθ/]
to think in a similar way to someone else, or to understand them easily because you share the same feelings and ideas
The two designers are on the same wavelength, sketching the exact same logo idea.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This expression originates from radio broadcasting technology, where radio signals are transmitted on specific wavelengths. For proper signal transmission, a transmitter and receiver must be tuned to the same wavelength. This physical concept expanded from the mid-20th century onwards to metaphorically describe mutual understanding between people—the idea that two people's 'mental frequencies' must align for effective communication.
Breakdown
wave (undulating motion) + length (distance) = wavelength. The phrase 'on the same wavelength' combines this technical term with the preposition 'on' to denote shared understanding, transferring the radio engineering concept of frequency alignment to interpersonal communication.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My dog and I are so on the same wavelength that he starts wagging his tail the moment I even think about walks.”
“During the group project, my teammate and I were immediately on the same wavelength about how to organize the presentation.”
“It's hard to work with him because we're just never on the same wavelength — he wants order, I want chaos.”
“The teacher and the new student were on the same wavelength from day one, which made the transition much smoother.”
📚Related Words
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