Definition

1. Adjective (from old usage):
   • For mere form's sake; perfunctory; done as a routine obligation without real intent or care. It describes an action performed superficially, just to fulfill a customary requirement or to maintain appearances, lacking genuine substance or sincere effort.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • Lời chúc của ông ấy nghe có vẻ qua lân. (His congratulations sounded rather perfunctory.)
  • Công việc kiểm tra được thực hiện một cách qua lân. (The inspection was carried out in a merely formal manner.)
  • Đó chỉ là một nghi thức qua lân, không có ý nghĩa thực sự. (It was just a pro forma ritual, without real meaning.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used to critique bureaucratic procedures, social formalities, or obligatory gestures that are empty of true purpose or commitment.

Variants and Related Words

• Làm qua loa (v): to do something hastily or superficially.

  • Anh ta làm bài tập qua loa cho xong. (He did his homework hastily just to get it done.)

• Chiếu lệ (adj): another term with a very similar meaning, denoting something done for form's sake.

  • Cuộc họp chỉ diễn ra một cách chiếu lệ. (The meeting took place merely as a formality.)

Synonyms

• Perfunctory: carried out with minimal effort or reflection.
• Pro forma: done as a matter of form or routine.
• Token: done for the sake of appearances only.
• Superficial: lacking depth or thoroughness.

Related Idioms

• Qua mắt: to do something just well enough to avoid scrutiny or to deceive superficially.

  • Anh ấy làm việc chỉ để qua mắt cấp trên. (He works just to keep up appearances for his superiors.)

• Cưỡi ngựa xem hoa: to do something in a cursory way, like "viewing flowers while on horseback" (to skim over).

  • Đừng cưỡi ngựa xem hoa, hãy đọc kỹ báo cáo. (Don't just skim it; read the report carefully.)

1. (từ cũ) For mere form's sake