“Great Minds Think Alike” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 15, 2024 by Liam Daniel

“Great minds think alike” is a phrase that was once widely used, but seen less frequently now. If you have seen or heard this phrase recently used, then you were probably wondering what it means which led you here. This is a good thing because here you will find the meaning of this phrase.

You will also find information regarding its origin and some example sentences and conversations where the phrase is used in the correct context to further enhance your understanding. Finally, you will discover some alternative words or phrases that you can use in place of this phrase to convey the same meaning in a conversation.

Great Minds Think Alike Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “Great minds think alike” is a phrase that suggests that intelligent or insightful people often share similar ideas or opinions. It is often used humorously or lightly when two people independently come up with the same thought or solution, implying a sense of shared intelligence or understanding.
Great Minds Think Alike Meaning
Great Minds Think Alike Meaning – Created by 7ESL

Great Minds Think Alike Meaning

The proverb “great minds think alike” is something that is said when two different people think of the same idea at the same time. It is kind of like saying the word “jinx” when two different people say the same thing simultaneously. Usually when the term is said it means someone is humorously congratulating you for being as intelligent as they are.

Origin of this Phrase

The origin of the idiomatic phrase “great minds think alike” can be traced back to the early 17th-century. Although not said in these specific terms, the thought behind the expression was first used by author Daubridgecourt Belchier in a work called the Hans Beer-Pot published in 1618. Belchier derived his usage from an ancient Greek proverb.

Usage of “Great Minds Think Alike”

Here are some examples of how this phrase can be used in various contexts:

In a brainstorming session:

  • “We both suggested the same marketing strategy for the campaign—great minds think alike!“

During a conversation:

  • “I was just about to say that! Great minds think alike!“

In a lighthearted context:

  • “You and I both decided to wear blue today—great minds think alike!“

In a team environment:

  • “After hearing everyone’s ideas, it seems we’re all on the same page. Great minds think alike!“

In response to a compliment:

  • “You like that book too? Well, great minds think alike!“

Related Terms to “Great Minds Think Alike”

  • Birds of a feather flock together – Suggests that people with similar interests or characteristics tend to associate with each other.
  • Two heads are better than one – Indicates that collaboration often leads to better solutions or ideas.
  • Great minds think alike, but fools seldom differ – A humorous twist that implies that not all agreement is a sign of intelligence.
  • Like minds think alike – A variation that emphasizes that similar thinking often leads to the same conclusions.
  • In sync – Refers to people who are aligned in their thoughts, actions, or feelings.
  • On the same wavelength – Indicates that people share similar thoughts, ideas, or feelings.
  • Shared vision – Refers to a common understanding or agreement about future goals or directions.
  • Concur – A formal way of saying that people agree with each other.
  • Harmonious agreement – A phrase that describes a situation where everyone agrees smoothly without conflict.
  • Consensus – General agreement among a group of people.

Alternatives to “Great Minds Think Alike”

There are several alternative phrases you could use in place of the idiom “great minds think alike” that would make the same thing. Some of the other phrases you could use include:

  • Intelligent people seem to have the same ideas
  • Smart people think similarly
  • Intellectuals tend to have the same ideas

“Great Minds Think Alike” Examples

Example Sentences

  • Daphne told me that great minds think alike when we both came up with the same idea for the charity event at school.
  • When great minds think alike they tend to come up with some good ideas.

Example Conversations

A conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: I think we should go to the mall to get some Christmas presents.
  • Friend 2: Great minds think alike. I was thinking the same thing.

A discussion between two co-workers.

  • Co-worker 1: I was thinking there could be several ways to expedite the shipping process.
  • Co-worker 2: I was thinking the same thing. Great minds think alike.
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