Pleasantries

Pleasantries are polite and often superficial remarks or greetings exchanged in casual conversation. They serve to establish rapport, ease tension, and signal friendly intent. Often formulaic, pleasantries are used to initiate a conversation, express well wishes, or acknowledge someone's presence. They typically lack depth or significant meaning, acting more as social lubricants than substantive exchanges. Their purpose is primarily to maintain social harmony and create a comfortable atmosphere. While considered polite, excessive or insincere pleasantries can sometimes feel perfunctory or even dismissive.

Pleasantries meaning with examples

• As the guests arrived at the party, they exchanged pleasantries, commenting on the weather and complimenting each other's attire. The host, delighted, welcomed everyone with warmth. The initial pleasantries set a convivial tone for the evening, allowing everyone to settle in comfortably and begin mingling.
• Before starting the negotiation, the lawyers engaged in a series of pleasantries, discussing their travel and expressing admiration for each other's firms. The pleasantries aimed to soften the atmosphere and establish a semblance of rapport before delving into the more contentious aspects of the case.
• On meeting his new neighbor, John started with the common pleasantries: "Lovely weather we're having!" and "How are you settling in?". The simple greetings offered a friendly introduction, a step toward building a positive relationship.
• The business partners, despite a looming deadline, shared brief pleasantries about their families and recent vacations. The light conversation momentarily diffused the stress and reminded them of their mutual respect, allowing them to approach the problem with renewed collaboration.
• At the family reunion, after years apart, the relatives began with pleasantries, catching up on the highlights of the intervening time. After some small talk, the warm greetings and smiles set a tone that allowed them to share their more personal experiences.