Pleasantry

B2 16+

Pronunciation: /ˈplɛzəntri/

Definitions of pleasantry

noun a polite remark or gesture, especially one made in social situations

Example Sentences

A1 She greeted her neighbor with a friendly pleasantry.

A2 During the meeting, they exchanged pleasantries before getting down to business.

B1 The party was filled with polite pleasantries and small talk.

B2 Despite their differences, they managed to maintain a level of pleasantry in their interactions.

C1 His natural charm and ability to engage in pleasantry made him a favorite among the guests.

C2 The diplomat's skillful use of pleasantry helped to ease tensions during the negotiations.

Examples of pleasantry in a Sentence

formal During the meeting, they exchanged pleasantries before getting down to business.

informal At the party, they greeted each other with pleasantries before grabbing a drink.

slang I'm not in the mood for pleasantries, let's just get to the point.

figurative The pleasantries of small talk can sometimes mask deeper emotions.

Grammatical Forms of pleasantry

past tense

exchanged pleasantries

plural

pleasantries

comparative

more pleasurable

superlative

most pleasant

present tense

exchange pleasantries

future tense

will exchange pleasantries

perfect tense

have exchanged pleasantries

continuous tense

exchanging pleasantries

singular

pleasantry

positive degree

pleasant

infinitive

to exchange pleasantries

gerund

exchanging pleasantries

participle

exchanged pleasantries

Origin and Evolution of pleasantry

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Old French
Story behind the word: The word 'pleasantry' originated from the Old French word 'plaisanterie', which comes from the verb 'plaisant', meaning 'to please'.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to refer to light-hearted jokes or playful remarks, the meaning of 'pleasantry' has evolved to encompass any polite or agreeable exchange in conversation.