on a first-name basis
on a first-name basis
So familiar or friendly with someone as to be comfortable referring to them by their first name (as opposed to being more formal and using their surname). Don't worry, we'll get in—I'm on a first-name basis with the owner of the club. Wow, since when are you on a first-name basis with a famous author?
See also: basis, on
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
*on a first-name basis (with someone)
knowing someone very well; good friends with someone. (*Typically: be ~; get ~.) I'm on a first-name basis with John. John and I are on a first-name basis.
See also: basis, on
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
on a first-name basis
Quite familiar and friendly, as in Practically all the guests were on a first-name basis. This idiom alludes to the fact that using a person's given name betokens familiarity. [Second half of 1900s]
See also: basis, on
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
- basis
- put a name to
- put a name to (someone or something)
- put a name to somebody/something
- in the name of
- in the name of (someone or something)
- in the name of sb/sth
- go by
- go-by
- by name