perfunctory obedience

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "perfunctory obedience" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a type of compliance that is done without genuine effort or interest, often as a mere formality. Example: "The employees showed perfunctory obedience to the new policies, completing the tasks without any real engagement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

SERVICE Perfunctory.

The New York Times

There's the perfunctory.

The New York Times - Books

The service is perfunctory.

The New York Times - Travel

SERVICE -- Charmless and perfunctory.

The New York Times - Food

(a) Unquestioning obedience.

The New Yorker

"Obedience comes from listening".

The New York Times

"Rape is perfunctory," he says.

The New York Times

The Fosse homage appears perfunctory.

The New York Times

All about obedience.

The New Yorker

Perfunctory ones at that.

The Guardian - Sport

So things become disappointingly perfunctory.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "perfunctory obedience", ensure the context clearly indicates a lack of genuine commitment or enthusiasm in the act of obeying. This phrase is best suited for situations where the outward appearance of compliance masks a deeper lack of engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "perfunctory obedience" when the obedience is complete and thorough, even if unwilling. This phrase specifically describes a superficial or incomplete compliance, not simply unwilling compliance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perfunctory obedience" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. "Perfunctory" is an adjective that modifies the noun "obedience", indicating the quality or manner of the obedience. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Perfunctory obedience" describes a type of compliance that lacks genuine enthusiasm or commitment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in English, best suited for situations where there's an outward show of following rules without real engagement. While alternatives like "superficial adherence" or "mechanical compliance" exist, understanding the nuance of "perfunctory obedience" allows for more precise communication, particularly in formal or analytical writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perfunctory compliance

A direct synonym, focusing on the lack of genuine interest or effort.

mechanical compliance

Emphasizes the automatic and unthinking nature of the obedience.

superficial adherence

Highlights the lack of deep commitment or genuine engagement in following rules or commands.

half-hearted submission

Conveys a sense of reluctance or lack of enthusiasm in obeying.

routine compliance

Focuses on the habitual and uninspired nature of the obedience.

token obedience

Suggests that the obedience is merely a symbolic gesture without real substance.

grudging obedience

Implies reluctance and resentment in carrying out the act of obedience.

empty submission

Highlights the lack of sincerity or meaningful intent behind the act of obeying.

formal obedience

Focuses on the obedience being carried out only because it is the expected protocol.

forced compliance

Emphasizes that the obedience is not willingly given, but rather compelled.

FAQs

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

You can use "perfunctory obedience" to describe situations where someone complies with rules or commands without genuine enthusiasm or commitment. For example, "The employees showed "mechanical compliance" to the new policies, completing the tasks without any real engagement".

What's a good alternative to "perfunctory obedience"?

Alternatives include "superficial adherence", "routine compliance", or "half-hearted submission". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "perfunctory obedience" a formal or informal expression?

"Perfunctory obedience" leans towards a more formal register, suitable for analytical or descriptive writing. Simpler phrases might be preferred in casual conversation.

What does "perfunctory obedience" imply about the quality of the obedience?

It implies that the obedience is superficial, lacking genuine engagement or enthusiasm. It suggests that the action is performed as a mere formality, without real commitment.