Vocabulary in context
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Perfunctory
Done in a careless or superficial way; mechanical and lacking enthusiasm.
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Imagine 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.
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Sounds Like
PER-fuhnk-tuh-ree
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Looks Like
Per factory (Each factory)
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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.
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Other Forms
perfunctorinessnoun
perfunctorilyadverb
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Connect With
cursory, superficial, automatic, mechanical, apathetic
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Note
Do not confuse with 'perseverance' (persistence) or 'perfect' (flawless). Perfunctory describes a lack of real engagement; watch for tone and context.
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Study Deeper
Examples
- Her perfunctory apology sounded insincere.
- The supervisor's perfunctory safety check missed several hazards.
Synonyms
cursorysuperficialmechanicalautomaticapathetic
Antonyms
thoroughmeticulousenthusiasticdiligent
Etymology
From Latin perfunctus 'completed' (per- 'through' + fungī 'to perform'), via Middle French perfunctoire to English perfunctory.
Mnemonic
PerFUNCT-ory: Think of a functionary who completes tasks with little care; a routine, half-hearted function.
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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.
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