Question

After he made that absurd remark, a(n) ____ grin of self-congratulation spread like syrup across his face.

a) smug
b) sardonic
c) wry
d) complacent

Answer 1

Smug. Because usually when somebody does something that they feel is awesome they have a smug smile on their face.

Answer 2

The correct answer is smug.

Step-by-step explanation:

Absurd Remark and Self-Congratulatory Grin

In the given excerpt, the phrase "After he made that absurd remark, a(n) ____ grin of self-congratulation spread like syrup across his face" suggests that the person who made the remark is feeling proud and satisfied with themselves. The word that best fills the blank is smug because it accurately describes a self-satisfied or overly confident expression. A smug grin implies that the person is pleased with their own cleverness or superiority.

Examples:

• After winning the debate, Mary had a smug grin on her face.
• The lawyer had a smug grin after tricking the witness into admitting his guilt.

The adjective "smug" accurately portrays the person's self-congratulatory and arrogant expression, making option a) the correct answer choice.