on nodding terms

on nodding terms

1. Having a relationship which is not close or fully developed (with someone).

   to be on nodding terms with one's neighbours

   • 2012, David Walliams [pseudonym; David Edward Williams], “Ten-Tonne Truck”, in Ratburger, London: HarperCollins Children’s Books, →ISBN, page 149:

     [P]erhaps there was a squirrel or two whom he could befriend, or at least one day be on nodding terms with.

• on speaking terms
• on talking terms
• nodding acquaintance