same wavelength

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'same wavelength' is a correct and commonly used idiom in written English.
It refers to two or more people who share similar thoughts, ideas, or understanding about a particular topic. Example: "Sarah and I always seem to be on the same wavelength when it comes to planning our annual office party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're on the same wavelength.

Independent

"He was on the same wavelength.

Independent

"Our ideas are on the same wavelength.

The New York Times - Sports

We're still on the same wavelength.

The Guardian - Music

We were really on the same wavelength.

The New York Times - Magazine

Players not on the same wavelength.

The Telegraph

London was on the same wavelength.

The Guardian

Suddenly he shouted, "Thank God, somebody on the same wavelength.

The Guardian - Sport

"They want everyone to be on the same wavelength.

The New York Times

Whoever designed this house was on the same wavelength.

The New York Times

The Democrats are not entirely on the same wavelength.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer the preposition 'on' (e.g. 'we are on the same wavelength') as it is the standard idiomatic construction.

Common error

Do not use 'at' as a preposition unless you are literally referring to a physical measurement in physics (e.g. 'the light is at the same wavelength'). For social connection, 'on' is the mandatory preposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "same wavelength" functions as an idiomatic prepositional phrase, typically following the verb 'to be'. According to Ludwig AI, it acts as a metaphorical descriptor for cognitive or emotional alignment. It is almost always preceded by the definite article 'the' and the preposition 'on', forming a complete unit of meaning that transcends the literal sum of its parts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

10%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "same wavelength" is a highly robust and versatile English idiom. As seen in the data provided by Ludwig, it is a preferred way for writers in elite publications to describe human connection and intellectual alignment. Whether used in a sports context to describe teammates' chemistry or in a political context to describe shared ideology, the phrase carries a positive connotation of harmony and efficiency. While it is metaphorical, Ludwig AI confirms its status as a correct and common part of contemporary English, provided the preposition 'on' is used to maintain its idiomatic integrity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the same page

Uses a literary metaphor rather than a radio/physics one, focusing on shared information or intent.

in sync

Short for in synchronization, highlighting the timing and coordination of thoughts or actions.

seeing eye to eye

Focuses specifically on agreement and shared perspective during a discussion or conflict.

of one mind

A more formal and emphatic way to suggest total agreement or collective thought.

on the same track

Implies working toward the same goal or following the same logical path.

tuned in to each other

Closely related radio metaphor that emphasizes the active effort to understand the other person.

of a like mind

Describes similarity in temperament or philosophy rather than a specific moment of connection.

in accord

A formal expression denoting formal agreement or harmony between parties.

on the same level

Can imply equality in status or a shared depth of understanding regarding a topic.

sharing a common vision

More common in professional or strategic contexts to denote alignment on future goals.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "same wavelength"?

You can use alternatives like "on the same page", "in sync", or "seeing eye to eye" depending on the context.

How to use "same wavelength" in a sentence?

A typical usage would be: "It is much easier to collaborate when everyone is on the "same wavelength" regarding the project goals."

Is "same wavelength" formal or informal?

It is generally considered neutral to informal. While frequently found in news sources like "The New York Times", it might be replaced by "in accordance" or "aligned" in highly formal academic or legal documents.

What is the difference between "same wavelength" and "same page"?

Being on the "same page" often implies having the same information or knowledge, whereas being on the ""same wavelength"" suggests a deeper, more intuitive or intellectual similarity in how you think.