Definition

Noun: 1. A polite social remark, often light or humorous, made to be agreeable or to maintain a friendly atmosphere. It refers to a courteous, inoffensive, and usually brief comment exchanged in social situations. 2. An agreeable or amusing remark. It is a comment intended to be pleasant and congenial, often as part of casual conversation.

Usage

"Pleasantry" is a formal noun, typically used in the plural form "pleasantries." It describes the conventional, polite, and often superficial remarks people exchange at the beginning or end of a social interaction, such as greetings, comments about the weather, or other uncontroversial topics. These remarks serve to establish or maintain a cordial tone before moving to more serious matters.

Examples

• After the pleasantries were over, they began the serious business negotiation.
• We exchanged a few pleasantries about the lovely weather before the meeting started.
• His speech began with the usual pleasantries, thanking the organizers and the audience.

Advanced Usage

• "To exchange pleasantries": This is the most common collocation. It means to make polite, friendly, and informal conversation, especially at the start of an encounter.
  • The diplomats exchanged pleasantries before addressing the contentious issue.

Variants and Related Words

• Pleasant (adj): Giving a sense of happy satisfaction or enjoyment; agreeable.
  • We had a pleasant conversation.

Synonyms

• Civility: Formal politeness and courtesy in behavior or speech.
• Banter: The playful and friendly exchange of teasing remarks.
• Small talk: Polite conversation about unimportant or uncontroversial matters.

Antonyms

• Insult: A disrespectful or scornfully abusive remark or action.
• Affront: An action or remark that causes outrage or offense.
• Invective: Insulting, abusive, or highly critical language.

Noun

1. an agreeable or amusing remark
   • they exchange pleasantries