顔見知り

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 顔見知り is read as かおみしり and is a noun for an acquaintance or familiar face whom one recognizes and may greet.
• Basic usage: Someone known in the neighborhood appears in 近所の顔見知り, while becoming acquainted by sight appears in 店員と顔見知りになる.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Relationship based on recognition
  • The people recognize each other after repeated encounters, but they are not necessarily close or deeply acquainted.
• Difference from 友人
  • 友人 denotes a friend with an established personal relationship, while 顔見知り may mean only someone known by face.