rub elbows (with someone) and rub shoulders with someone
Theme: SOCIAL
to associate with someone; to work closely with someone.
I don't care to rub elbows with someone who acts like that!I rub shoulders with John at work. We are good friends.
rub elbows
To interact or mingle with a person or group. I don't want to go to the gala tonight, but my wife is eager to rub elbows with the upper class.I've been rubbing elbows all night, and now I'd like to just have some quiet time.
rub elbows (with someone)
and rub shoulders with someone
Fig. to associate with someone; to work closely with someone. (No physical contact is involved.) I don't care to rub elbows with someone who acts like that! I rub shoulders with John at work. We are good friends.