horizontal relationship; lateral ties; peer-to-peer connection
Refers to connections between people or groups at the same level, as opposed to vertical/hierarchical relationships. Often used in business, networking, and social contexts.
I expanded my lateral connections at the cross-industry networking event.
If horizontal ties between departments are weak, information sharing is delayed.
Standard spelling using the common kanji 横 and kana for the rest.
Alternate spelling using the kanji 繋 for つながり; less common but still seen.
Compound of 横 (horizontal) + の (possessive particle) + つながり (connection). The phrase directly describes lateral or peer-level relationships.