on speaking terms
Not giving silence
On speaking terms describes a relationship where two people communicate, at least minimally.
The phrase usually appears in negative or qualified contexts: They're not on speaking terms means they've had a falling out and refuse to talk.
We're barely on speaking terms suggests strained relations.
Being on speaking terms sets a low bar—it doesn't imply friendship, just basic willingness to exchange words.
- nodding acquaintanceMinimal social connection
- acquaintanceshipState of knowing someone
- small talkPolite trivial conversation
- cordialitySincere friendly warmth
- friendshipBond of mutual affection
politeness · civil discourse · dialogue · amicability · conversation · clearing the air · reconciliation · making amends · forgiveness · burying the hatchet · rapport · civility · truce · olive branch · exchange · diplomacy · harmony · détente
on speaking termsestranged
Separated by emotional distance
not on speaking terms · incommunicado · cut off · not talking · blanking
on speaking termsat odds
In a state of conflict
feuding · alienated · on the outs · at daggers drawn · at loggerheads
speak, speaking, speaks, spoken, speaker, speakers, speakable, unspeakable, term