Select the option that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word. The sardonic nature of her stories made her stand out among the contemporary writers.

Step-by-step solution

Sardonic: grimly mocking or cynical. Mocking: making fun of someone or something in a cruel way, derisive. Compassionate: feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others. Insightful: having or showing an accurate and deep understanding; perceptive. Comic: causing or meant to cause laughter. Here, 'mocking' is thus the nearest in meaning with the given word 'Sardonic'