ENGLISH
REFERENCE

wavelengths

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈweɪvˌɫɛŋθs// UK //wˈeɪvlɛŋθs// wave·lengths

n. the distance between two peaks of a wave, like light or sound. It is also used to describe when two people think in a similar way.

n. the distance between successive crests of a wave, especially points in a sound wave or electromagnetic wave. Often used metaphorically to describe a state of mutual understanding or shared perspective.


SIMPLE

We are on the same wavelength about the new project.

CONTEXTUAL

The radio station broadcasts on several different wavelengths to reach listeners in the mountain valleys.

COMPLEX

While the physics department studied the specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light, the marketing team struggled to get on the same wavelength regarding the campaign's visual direction.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly used in the plural when referring to scientific measurements or the idiomatic expression 'on the same wavelength'.

Pitfall

We are in the same wavelengthWe are on the same wavelengthThe idiomatic expression for shared understanding always uses the preposition 'on', not 'in'.

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