The correct answer is B. Claims of importance
Step-by-step explanation:
The word "pretensions" refers to a doubtful statement or claim usually related to the importance, merit or value something or someone has, which in most cases is not true. Because of this, the word "pretension" is used as a synonym of allegation or claim, considering something is being assumed based on its value or importance, but in most cases, this is not proved or supported. Therefore, it can be concluded the best phrase that defines "pretensions" is "claims of importance" because a pretension is basically an allegation based on the value or importance of something or someone.