going through the motions
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The authors report that it didn’t work: “Checklists and templates are tempting, but they often result in employees ‘turning off their brains,’ going through the motions instead of thoughtful application.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 12, 2026
"You feel a complete lack of hope or care for the future. You are just going through the motions," she said.
From BBC ● May 13, 2026
Megan was kind though to not make the sting of the split worse by going through the motions of the wedding day just to say no.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 22, 2025
What an incredible way to spend your time, because I've had other jobs that have felt like going through the motions or whatever.
From Salon ● Apr. 17, 2025
I just heaved, my stomach muscles tightening and my throat opening and a gasping, guttural blech, going through the motions of vomiting over and over again.
From "Looking for Alaska" by John Green
