perfunctoriness
Definition
Noun: The quality or state of being performed merely as a routine duty, without genuine interest, enthusiasm, or care. It describes actions done in a superficial or mechanical manner.
Usage Examples
- (The homework was done carelessly and without effort.)
- (The smile was automatic and lacked warmth.)
- (The greeting was brief and indifferent.)
Advanced Usage
- "to exhibit perfunctoriness": to show a lack of thoroughness or dedication in performing a task.
- The report was filled with errors, exhibiting a clear perfunctoriness in its preparation. (The work was done hastily and without attention to detail.)
Variants and Related Words
- Perfunctory (adj): carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection; done as a matter of duty.
- He gave a perfunctory nod before leaving the room. (The nod was quick and without real engagement.)
- Perfunctorily (adv): in a perfunctory manner.
- She perfunctorily signed the document without reading it. (She signed it automatically, without care.)
Synonyms
- Carelessness: lack of attention to detail or effort.
- Indifference: lack of interest or concern.
- Superficiality: a focus on surface-level aspects only.
- Mechanicalness: the quality of being done automatically, without thought.
Related Idioms
- Going through the motions: performing a task without genuine effort or emotional involvement.
- He was just going through the motions at work, and his perfunctoriness was obvious to everyone. (He did his job but without any real commitment.)
Antonyms
- Thoroughness: the quality of being complete and careful in every detail.
- Sincerity: genuine feeling or expression.
- Enthusiasm: intense and eager enjoyment or interest.