English–Japanese

“someone i know” in Japanese

Japanese

Pronunciation

Romajishiriai

Example

公園で知り合いに会いました。kō en de shi ri a i ni a i ma shi ta

I met someone I know at the park.

Illustration for 知り合い (someone i know)

How to say “someone i know” in Japanese

“Someone i know” in Japanese is 知り合い (shiriai).

Describes a person known through some connection but not necessarily a close friend.

Full entry for 知り合い: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with 知り合い

困ったときは、知り合いに相談すると安心です。koma tta to ki wa shi ri a i ni sō dan su ru to an shin de su

When you are in trouble, it is reassuring to consult someone you know.

Tips for using 知り合い

  • In everyday Japanese, 知り合い (shiriai, "someone known") commonly identifies a person connected through work, school, or another social setting without suggesting a close relationship.

“someone i know” in other languages