Which of the following best describes "satire"?

Satire is best defined as the use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms. The key aspect of satire is its intent to provoke thought and often to spur change by highlighting the flaws or absurdities of the subject being satirized. The witty language employed in satire serves as a tool to convey scorn and deliver meaningful social commentary, making it a powerful literary device.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of satire. Serious journalism tends to focus on factual reporting rather than humor or critique. A documentary style of writing usually aims to inform or educate the audience about real events without the use of humor or exaggeration. The genre focused on romantic relationships typically deals with themes of love and human interaction, which do not relate to the critical and comedic principles found in satire. Therefore, the choice that accurately describes satire is the use of witty language to convey scorn or insults.