perfunctory comments

USAGE SUMMARY

"perfunctory comments" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe comments that are given or made with little thought or effort, often out of obligation rather than genuine interest or concern. Example: During the meeting, the boss made perfunctory comments about the latest sales figures before moving on to the next item on the agenda.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

He tells Kovic to shrug it off, makes a few perfunctory comments about how confusing war can be and then tries to shoo Kovic out.

The New York Times

My friends from Kachin State, in northern Myanmar, also grumble that during his recent visit Obama made only a few perfunctory comments about the continued armed clashes between government forces and the ethnic rebels of the region.

The New York Times

For instance, prices on the default swaps for Treasuries rose almost 25 percent over four days in mid-May in reaction to some relatively benign and perfunctory comments by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner.

The New York Times

No chairs turned until the song was over and they gave their perfunctory comments.

Huffington Post

The 28-year-old man said that Gebru first approached him in a laundromat, and testified that "prior to this time, they had exchanged nothing more than the usual perfunctory comments related to making purchases and cashing checks".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Even the most perfunctory comment to Thiel can elicit long, deep pauses of consideration in response — so long you wonder if you've said something monumentally stupid.

TechCrunch

A perfunctory written comment from a Pennsylvania breeders' association is read, but the program would have benefited from some reasoned discussion between breeders and rescuers.

The New York Times - Arts

He/she may make a perfunctory, positive comment on the event but does not actively explore the story being shared by asking questions.

Behaviour Research and Therapy

When I receive my perfunctory declination to comment, I'll add a note to this post.

TechCrunch

It is entertaining but the non-academic reader has no idea who most of these writers are, and Eagleton's comments are too perfunctory to illuminate their thought or to encourage trust in his judgments upon them.

The Guardian - Books

The film would benefit from a governmental comment, even a perfunctory one, and from some outside experts.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "perfunctory comments" when you want to emphasize that remarks were made without genuine interest or effort, often out of obligation or routine. This is useful for conveying a sense of detachment or lack of engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "perfunctory comments" when you simply mean the comments were short or concise. "Perfunctory" implies a lack of care or enthusiasm, not just brevity. If the comments were brief but meaningful, choose a different descriptor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perfunctory comments" functions as an adjective-noun phrase, where "perfunctory" modifies the noun "comments". It describes the nature of the comments, indicating they are carried out with minimal effort or reflection. Ludwig AI confirms this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "perfunctory comments" describes remarks made with a lack of genuine interest or effort, often out of obligation or routine. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and primarily found in news and media contexts. It's crucial to use it when you want to highlight a lack of engagement or sincerity, avoiding its misinterpretation as simply meaning "brief". While the phrase is functional and common in certain contexts, its rarity suggests considering alternatives to ensure a more nuanced and impactful delivery. Related phrases include "cursory remarks", "superficial observations", or "routine statements".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perfunctory statements

A direct synonym, simply using "statements" instead of "comments".

cursory remarks

Emphasizes the brevity and lack of thoroughness in the comments.

superficial observations

Highlights the lack of depth and thoughtfulness in the comments.

routine statements

Focuses on the habitual and uninspired nature of the comments.

shallow remarks

Indicates a lack of intellectual or emotional depth in the comments.

glib remarks

Suggests the comments are made smoothly but insincerely.

hasty comments

Highlights the speed and lack of consideration in making the comments.

token remarks

Implies the comments are made as a formality, with little genuine meaning.

lip service

Focuses on insincere expression of support, often through comments.

empty platitudes

Stresses the lack of substance and meaningfulness in the comments.

FAQs

What does "perfunctory comments" mean?

"Perfunctory comments" refer to remarks or statements made in a routine or superficial manner, often lacking genuine interest or enthusiasm. They are typically given as a matter of course or duty, without much thought or feeling.

How can I use "perfunctory comments" in a sentence?

You might say, "The manager offered only "perfunctory comments" on the team's hard work, failing to acknowledge their specific achievements".

What are some alternatives to "perfunctory comments"?

Alternatives include "cursory remarks", "superficial observations", or "routine statements", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "perfunctory comments" in formal writing?

Yes, the phrase is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when you need to describe a lack of genuine engagement or enthusiasm. However, consider the specific tone and audience, as it can come across as critical or dismissive.