see eye to eye with sb

Are you using the idiom see eye to eye with sb but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the see eye to eye with sb idiom and the situations in which it is used.

Meaning of "see eye to eye with sb"

Meaning

The idiom “see eye to eye with someone” is used to describe two or more people who agree on something or share a common opinion. It implies that both parties come to a mutual understanding and have a shared viewpoint.

Etymology

The phrase “see eye to eye” has its origins in the early 1800s. It first appears in print in William Wildman’s novel The Reform’d Coquet of 1813. There, Wildman writes, “We never could agree, not even to see eye-to-eye.” The phrase likely comes from the notion that two people who can look each other in the eye without averting their gaze have a strong mutual comprehension.

Usage

The phrase “see eye to eye” is often used in a variety of contexts. In business, it refers to parties who can come to an agreeable compromise. In a family setting, it implies that two people can find a compromise or common ground on an issue. It can also be used to describe two people who can reach an understanding when discussing a particular topic.

Example Sentences

• My parents and I never see eye to eye on money matters.
• My sister and I are finally able to see eye to eye on our plans for the future.
• The company was able to see eye to eye on the new contract.
• The two scientists were able to see eye to eye on the research findings.

The universal role of idioms

"Kill two birds with one stone" is an English idiom that means to accomplish two things with a single action. In French, the similar idiom is "Faire d'une pierre deux coups," which translates to "To kill two birds with one stone." This idiom highlights the efficiency of completing two tasks with one action.