Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Done as a duty or routine without real interest, care, or enthusiasm; carried out with a minimum of effort or thought. It describes actions performed merely to fulfill an obligation, often hastily and superficially.
   • Lacking depth, thoroughness, or sincerity; cursory. It implies a superficial approach that fails to engage with the substance or details of the task.

Usage

The word "perfunctory" is used to describe actions, gestures, or efforts that are mechanical and lack genuine care or attention. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting something is done in a careless or indifferent manner just to get it over with.

Examples

• The manager gave the report only a perfunctory glance before signing it.
• She offered a perfunctory apology, but it was clear she wasn't really sorry.
• His perfunctory handshake did nothing to make the guests feel welcome.
• The inspection was so perfunctory that it missed several major safety violations.

Advanced Usage

• "Perfunctory courtesy": A polite gesture made out of obligation rather than genuine feeling.
  • He nodded with perfunctory courtesy but did not stop to talk.
• "Perfunctory manner": A way of doing something that is superficial and rushed.
  • The lecture was delivered in a bored, perfunctory manner.

Variants and Related Words

• Perfunctorily (adverb): In a perfunctory manner.
  • He shook hands perfunctorily and left the room.
• Perfunctoriness (noun, rare): The quality of being perfunctory.
  • The perfunctoriness of the review was disappointing.

Synonyms

• Cursory: Hasty and therefore not thorough.
• Superficial: Concerned only with the obvious or apparent.
• Desultory: Lacking a plan, purpose, or enthusiasm.
• Mechanical: Done without thought or spontaneity; automatic.
• Routine: Performed as part of a regular procedure.

Antonyms

• Thorough: Complete with regard to every detail.
• Meticulous: Showing great attention to detail.
• Conscientious: Wishing to do one's work or duty well and thoroughly.
• Earnest: Resulting from or showing sincere conviction.

Idioms and Phrases

While "perfunctory" itself is not commonly part of idioms, it describes the nature of actions within common phrases: - A perfunctory nod/smile/handshake: A gesture of acknowledgment made without real engagement. - She gave a perfunctory smile to the crowd. - To go through the motions: To do something mechanically or without sincere feeling (this phrase captures the essence of a perfunctory action). - He was just going through the motions during the meeting.

Adjective

1. as a formality only
   • a one-candidate pro forma election
2. hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough
   • a casual (or cursory) inspection failed to reveal the house's structural flaws
   • a passing glance
   • perfunctory courtesy