知己
Meanings
1
acquaintance; person one knows
Refers to someone one is acquainted with, but not necessarily a close friend. Often used in formal or written contexts.
He is merely a business acquaintance.
2
A closer, more trusted friend than a mere acquaintance. This usage is somewhat literary and less common in casual speech.
He is one of my few close friends.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉の知己を得るto become acquainted with someone / to gain someone's friendship
While studying abroad, I made the acquaintance of many notable people.
- 〈人〉と知己になるto become close friends with someone
I quickly became close friends with him.
- 知己がいるto have an acquaintance or close friend
I have an old acquaintance in this town.