- To agree completely with someone.
- To have the same opinion or perspective on a particular matter.
Explanation
Origin
- Likely comes from the literal image of two people looking directly at each other, meeting each other's gaze, which implies mutual understanding, accord, and lack of conflict or aversion.
- Can also be linked to biblical passages (like Isaiah 52:8 in some interpretations) referring to seeing clearly or being in agreement.
- The core idea is shared vision or perspective.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Be on the same wavelength (Understand each other well, share similar thoughts/feelings)
- Click (Get along well, understand each other easily broader than just agreement on one issue)
- Vibe with someone (Modern slang feel a connection or agreement)
More Formal:
- Be in accord
- Share a consensus
- Hold the same position
Expressing Disagreement (Alternatives to don't see eye to eye):
- Have differing opinions
- Disagree on this point
- We have conflicting views
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most contexts, from informal conversations to professional discussions.
- Common and widely understood.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally straightforward. Ensure learners understand it refers to agreement in opinion or perspective, not literal vision.
- The negative form (don't see eye to eye) is very common.
Examples
- My boss and I don't always see eye to eye on strategy.
- Although they have different backgrounds, they see eye to eye on most important issues.
- We finally sat down and talked, and now we see eye to eye.
Dialogue
Manager A: So, about the budget proposal for next quarter?
Manager B: I've reviewed it. I think your projections are spot on. We definitely see eye to eye on the key priorities.
Manager A: Great! I'm glad we're on the same page. Let's finalize it then.
Friend 1: Did you talk to Mike about the party planning?
Friend 2: Yeah, but we don't really see eye to eye on the theme. He wants something fancy, I want it casual.
Friend 1: Oh, okay. How are you going to resolve that?
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Glad my co-founder and I finally see eye to eye on the new marketing direction. Big things coming! #startup #agreement #teamwork
- Facebook Post: It's okay if you don't see eye to eye with everyone. Respectful disagreement is healthy. #perspective #respect #discussion
- LinkedIn Comment: Excellent points, John. We clearly see eye to eye on the importance of sustainability in this industry.
Response Patterns
- (Affirmative): That's good. / Glad you're in agreement. / Excellent.
- (Negative): That's difficult. / Why not? / What's the disagreement about? / Sorry to hear that.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After stating agreement (We see eye to eye):
- Might lead to planning next steps based on the agreement.
- Reinforces the positive relationship or shared goal.
After stating disagreement (We don't see eye to eye):
- Might lead to further discussion about the points of difference.
- Could lead to seeking compromise or agreeing to disagree.
- May require finding a way to work together despite the difference.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Describes a state of agreement or disagreement, usually arising during a discussion about a specific topic.
Intonation
- When affirming agreement: Often positive and clear. Stress on eye to eye. Yes, we SEE EYE to EYE on this.
- When stating disagreement (using the negative): Often neutral or slightly regretful. Stress on don't. We DON'T see eye to eye.
Generation Differences
- Universally understood and used across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.