have a nodding acquaintance with somebody/something

have a nodding acquaintance (with someone or something)

To have a slight or precursory knowledge of someone or something. Jim asked me to help fix his computer for him, but I'm afraid I only have a nodding acquaintance with how his machine works. Ruth and I had only a nodding acquaintance before going to the party, but once we got talking, it was like we'd been friends our whole lives.See also: acquaintance, have, nod, someone

have a nodding acˈquaintance with somebody/something

know somebody slightly/know a little about something: I have a nodding acquaintance with some members of the committee. ♢ You need at least a nodding acquaintance with the rules of chess to understand the book.See also: acquaintance, have, nod, somebody, something