JAMB - English Language (2000 - No. 41)
Choose from the options nearest in meaning to the word underlined.
In spite of her grim situation, the young widow smiled dutifully at the visitor's pleasantries.
unkind comments
sad stories
condolence messages
jocular remarks
Erläuterung
In this context, the word "pleasantries" refers to polite or agreeable remarks that are often exchanged during social interactions. Given that the widow is in a "grim situation," the remarks are likely related to her loss and would be considered "condolence messages."