cursory attention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cursory attention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quick or superficial level of attention given to something, often implying that it is not thorough or detailed. Example: "The report received only cursory attention from the committee, leading to several overlooked issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

And this exhibition demands more than cursory attention.

The New York Times - Travel

He has paid only cursory attention to briefing materials.

The New York Times

The weights would sometimes get only cursory attention.

The New York Times - Sports

Gorbachev paid only cursory attention to the economy until late 1989.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Also peculiar is the almost cursory attention given to the Holocaust.

The New York Times - Books

Other emerging economies endure this awkward period in relative obscurity, attracting only cursory attention.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

I was disturbed to learn that, after Browder's attempted suicide, he received cursory medical attention and was returned to solitary confinement.

The New Yorker

Since Horowitz began his appointment, he has upheld a second drug suspension of Guillermo Mota, a relief pitcher, a decision that received only cursory public attention when it was made.

The New York Times - Sports

While the prevalence and persistence of MVT in recombinant E. coli libraries has been studied previously, the issue of MVT in S. cerevisiae libraries has received only cursory and indirect attention.

BMC Biotechnology

But the real person who benefits is the person who believes that the mechanisms underlying bitcoin and the problems to which it can be applied are deserving of more mainstream scrutiny and attention than cursory hunts for the Bitcoin founder every few months.

TechCrunch

Black also launched a scathing attack on Lord Justice Leveson for paying only "cursory at best, flawed at worst" attention to the issue of exemplary damages.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you mean to convey a dismissive or inadequate degree of attention, "cursory attention" fits well. If you want to say something had little or no attention use something like "scant attention" instead.

Common error

Avoid using "cursory attention" in contexts where a detailed analysis or deep engagement is expected. This can undermine the credibility of your statement and suggest a lack of seriousness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cursory attention" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "cursory" modifies the noun "attention". It typically acts as the object of a verb, describing the quality or extent of the attention given to something. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase appears in examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cursory attention" is a commonly used phrase that describes a superficial or brief level of focus given to something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While it is suitable for formal writing, it's important to avoid using it in situations where thoroughness is expected. Related phrases include "perfunctory glance" and "brief consideration", which can be used as alternatives depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Be mindful of implying inadequacy when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perfunctory glance

Emphasizes the routine or indifferent nature of the action, focusing on the lack of genuine interest.

brief consideration

Highlights the short duration of the attention given, suggesting a lack of in-depth analysis.

superficial examination

Focuses on the shallowness of the investigation, implying a lack of thoroughness.

passing notice

Indicates that something was only briefly observed or acknowledged, without deeper engagement.

limited focus

Stresses the restricted scope of the attention, pointing out what was not considered.

slight regard

Emphasizes the minimal importance or value given to something.

casual observation

Highlights the informal and unplanned nature of the attention.

fleeting interest

Suggests that the attention was temporary and quickly disappeared.

minimal scrutiny

Indicates that something was not closely or critically examined.

hasty overview

Highlights that a summary was quickly glanced at or completed, suggesting a lack of in-depth analysis.

FAQs

How can I use "cursory attention" in a sentence?

You can use "cursory attention" to describe situations where something receives minimal or superficial focus. For example, "The budget proposal received only "cursory attention" from the committee."

What are some alternatives to "cursory attention"?

Alternatives include "superficial consideration", "brief overview", or "passing glance", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "cursory attention" in formal writing?

Yes, "cursory attention" is appropriate for formal writing when you need to convey that something was not examined in detail. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your writing.

What does "cursory attention" imply about the subject being described?

"Cursory attention" implies that the subject received only a superficial or surface-level examination. It suggests a lack of thoroughness or in-depth analysis.