perfunctory

USAGE SUMMARY

The word “perfunctory” is correct and usable in written English.
It’s an adjective used to describe an action that is done in a routine, unobservant, or purely mechanical way. For example, you could say, “He gave a perfunctory nod of acknowledgement before continuing with his work.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One thing about Australia's recent Carlton Mid Series against the Proteas that struck me as being particularly inept was the perfunctory and unceremonious manner in which Steve Smith was acknowledged as player-of-the-series, receiving little more than a handshake before Mark Nicholas threw to the end credits and another post-cricket airing of Christopher Reeve-era Superman.

The Guardian - Sport

EDM bangers like this already sound rather passe but Alesso is ploughing ahead regardless, with Swedish superstar Tove Lo phoning in a suitably perfunctory topline.

The Guardian - Music

This should include support offered to all those with a diagnosis and the end of perfunctory, slapdash homecare visits.

The Guardian

Perfunctory prayers at Mumbai's soulless municipal crematoria are just not the same.

The Guardian

The bad sex prize was established "to draw attention to the crude and often perfunctory use of redundant passages of sexual description in the modern novel – and to discourage it".

The Guardian - Books

A perfunctory investigation soon after the FBI raid on the compound, which left 80 people dead by gunshot or fire, was ignored.

The Economist

Hertz is not alone in having such a perfunctory approach to smartphones.

The Economist

Obituaries were perfunctory: most took the same tone as the General Advertiser, which brusquely reported that Kent had died "of a Mortification of his Bowels".A new show aims to bring "Kentissime"—a term coined by Walpole back to the limelight.

The Economist

Mrs Merkel's dealings with the new leader of Latin America apparently went no further than a perfunctory handshake.

The Economist

To descend as far, to take as much of her as he could survive, and risk even more".The Caribbean setting, where a desultory coup is under way, is pro forma; occasionally a hard-bitten journalist, shady CIA operative, or shifty junta general provides perfunctory (if painfully familiar) atmosphere.

The Economist

Both Japan and America, its protector, have long called for China to accept a hotline to Japan.As for the two countries' leaders, even a perfunctory handshake in Beijing would be something, while a substantive meeting would be best of all.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "perfunctory" to describe actions that are carried out without real interest, effort, or feeling, often due to habit or duty. This adds a layer of critique to your description, highlighting a lack of genuine engagement.

Common error

The word "perfunctory" describes a lack of enthusiasm, while "perfectory" (though rare) would imply something achieves perfection. Avoid misspellings or choosing it when you mean something is complete or flawless.

Linguistic Context

"Perfunctory" functions primarily as an adjective. Ludwig's examples show it modifies nouns, describing the manner in which an action is performed or the quality of an object. The "aiResponseStatus" indicates it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Encyclopedias

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "perfunctory" functions as an adjective used to describe actions or behaviors lacking genuine interest or effort. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It frequently appears in News & Media and Encyclopedias, indicating a formal to neutral register. The word carries a negative connotation, expressing criticism about the lack of care or enthusiasm. Remember to use "perfunctory" when you want to critique the superficial or indifferent nature of an action. Avoid confusing it with similar-sounding words.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Cursory

Emphasizes the brevity and lack of detail in the action.

Superficial

Highlights the lack of depth and thoroughness.

Mechanical

Focuses on the robotic and unthinking nature of the action.

Automatic

Indicates a lack of conscious thought or effort.

Lackadaisical

Suggests a lazy and apathetic approach.

Half-hearted

Implies a lack of enthusiasm or commitment.

Token

Highlights that the action is done only as a formality.

Routine

Emphasizes that the action is just part of the normal and predictable work.

Lip service

Suggests insincere agreement or support expressed through words but not actions.

Glancing

Emphasizes quick observation without further investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "perfunctory" in a sentence?

Use "perfunctory" to describe an action done without interest or enthusiasm, such as, "The clerk gave a "perfunctory nod"" or "The investigation was "perfunctory"."

What are some synonyms for "perfunctory"?

Alternatives to "perfunctory" include "cursory", "superficial", "mechanical", and "automatic". Each emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the lack of care or attention.

What does it mean when someone describes something as "perfunctory"?

Describing something as "perfunctory" means it was done as a routine duty without much care, attention, or enthusiasm. It suggests a lack of genuine interest or effort.

Is "perfunctory" a negative word?

Yes, "perfunctory" generally has a negative connotation because it implies a lack of genuine effort or interest. It suggests that something was done merely out of obligation, not with enthusiasm or dedication.