Perfunctory: meaning, definitions and examples

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perfunctory

[ pərˈfʌŋktəri ]

^{Context #1}

in a manner that shows little interest or effort

performed merely as a routine duty; lacking enthusiasm or interest

Synonyms

indifferent, mechanical, routine

Examples of usage

She gave a perfunctory nod when he entered the room.
He delivered a perfunctory apology without really meaning it.
Their perfunctory response to the crisis left much to be desired.

^{Context #2}

in a superficial or cursory manner

done hastily and with little attention to detail; superficial or shallow

Synonyms

cursory, hasty, superficial

Examples of usage

He gave a perfunctory glance at the report before moving on to something else.
The perfunctory way she answered the question showed she didn't really care.
The perfunctory cleanup of the office left much to be desired.

Translations

Translations of the word "perfunctory" in other languages:

🇵🇹 superficial

🇮🇳 उदासीन

🇩🇪 oberflächlich

🇮🇩 dangkal

🇺🇦 поверхневий

🇵🇱 powierzchowny

🇯🇵 おざなり

🇫🇷 superficiel

🇪🇸 superficial

🇹🇷 yüzeysel

🇰🇷 형식적인

🇸🇦 سطحي

🇨🇿 povrchní

🇸🇰 povrchný

🇨🇳 敷衍

🇸🇮 površen

🇮🇸 yfirborðskenndur

🇰🇿 беткейлі

🇬🇪 ზედაპირული

🇦🇿 səthi

🇲🇽 superficial

Word origin

The word 'perfunctory' originated from the Latin word 'perfunctorius', which means 'careless' or 'negligent'. It first appeared in English in the late 16th century. Over time, 'perfunctory' has come to be associated with actions or gestures that are done without real interest or enthusiasm, merely as a formality or duty.