Perfunctory
Done in a careless or superficial way; mechanical and lacking enthusiasm.
adjectivePerfunctory
Done in a careless or superficial way; mechanical and lacking enthusiasm.
adjectiveImagine This
The toy factory inspector has to inspect thousands of toys every day; it is so routine that he does the job just for the sake of it.
Sounds Like
PER-fuhnk-tuh-ree
Looks Like
Per factory (Each factory)
Remember This
From Latin perfunctus 'completed', from per- 'through' + fungī 'to perform'; perfunctory is often used to describe actions done as a matter of form rather than genuine effort.
Other Forms
Connect With
cursory, superficial, automatic, mechanical, apathetic
Note
Do not confuse with 'perseverance' (persistence) or 'perfect' (flawless). Perfunctory describes a lack of real engagement; watch for tone and context.
Study Deeper
- Her perfunctory apology sounded insincere.
- The supervisor's perfunctory safety check missed several hazards.
From Latin perfunctus 'completed' (per- 'through' + fungī 'to perform'), via Middle French perfunctoire to English perfunctory.
PerFUNCT-ory: Think of a functionary who completes tasks with little care; a routine, half-hearted function.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Cursory
adjectiveDone in a hurried, superficial way; lacking thoroughness or attention to detail.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.