Synonyms for

Acquaintances

Verb / ʌˈkweɪntʌnsɪz / Another word for acquaintances — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Acquaintances are people you know, but not very well.

Synonyms & similar words

conversancy familiarity conversance stranger friend acquaintanceship acquaintance associates colleagues companions contacts friends mates pals partners peers accomplices allies confederates consorts groupies hangers-on members sidekicks supporters workmates

Synonyms by register

Formal

contacts associates connections colleagues

Informal

buddies pals mates chums acquaintances

Literary

kindred spirits fellow travelers compatriots

Antonyms

strangers enemies opponents rivals foes adversaries

Common collocations

  • make acquaintances
  • few acquaintances
  • casual acquaintances
  • old acquaintances
  • new acquaintances
  • mutual acquaintances
  • form acquaintances

Word family

noun acquaintance
verb acquaint
adjective acquainted
adverb acquaintedly

Usage note

While 'acquaintances' can refer to people one knows slightly, it's often used in a more formal context than informal synonyms like 'friends' or 'buddies'. It implies a level of recognition without deep familiarity.

Example sentences

  1. I have many acquaintances at school, but only a few close friends.
  2. My mom always tells me to be polite to my acquaintances.
  3. I'm going to introduce you to some of my acquaintances at the party tonight.
  4. I ran into one of my old acquaintances at the grocery store yesterday.
  5. It's important to maintain good relationships with your acquaintances.

Quotes

  • Acquaintances are many, but friends are few.
  • An acquaintance merely enjoys your company, a fair-weather companion flatters when all is well, a true friend has your best interests at heart and the pluck to tell you what you need to hear.
  • Acquaintances we meet, enjoy, and can easily leave behind; but friendship grows deep roots.

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