snob apology
a snob apology is when you recognize someone in public but pretend not to see them. then, later, you contact a mutual friend to admit to having seen them and didn't mean any offence by ignoring them.
Hi Jennifer, I think I saw your friend Daniel at the grocery store downtown last night. I wasn't sure if it was him, but if it was, this is my snob apology - let him know that I didn't snub him on purpose!