noun a person one knows slightly, but who is not a close friend
An acquaintance is someone you know, but not as well as a friend. You may have met them a few times or know them through a mutual connection.
Acquaintances are often important in networking, as they can introduce you to new opportunities and connections.
In a professional setting, acquaintances may be colleagues or business contacts that you are familiar with but not necessarily close to.
Acquaintances are common at social events where you may meet new people and make casual connections.
Acquaintances can be found in community groups or organizations where you interact with a variety of people on a more casual basis.
In the world of literature, a writer may use the term 'acquaintance' to refer to a character in a story who is known to another character but not necessarily a close friend or family member.
Psychologists may use the term 'acquaintance' to describe the level of relationship between a client and someone they know outside of therapy. This distinction can be important in understanding the client's social support network.
Lawyers may use the term 'acquaintance' to describe a witness who is not a close friend or family member of the client but who has some knowledge relevant to a legal case.
In the context of hiring and onboarding new employees, a human resources manager may use the term 'acquaintance' to refer to someone who is known to a current employee but is not a close personal connection.