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What does the expression "l'esprit de l'escalier" mean in literature?

  1. Excessively intellectual

  2. Life in the fast lane

  3. A witty remark

  4. Stairway to heaven

The correct answer is: A witty remark

This phrase refers to a clever or witty comeback that one thinks of only after the conversation or event has passed. Option A, "excessively intellectual," does not accurately capture the meaning of the phrase as it focuses on intellect rather than wit. Option B, "life in the fast lane," is simply a cliché phrase that is unrelated to the topic of literature. Option D, "stairway to heaven," has a completely different connotation and is not related to cleverness or wit in any way.