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perfunctory

[per-fuhngk-tuh-ree] / pərˈfʌŋk tə ri /


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.

In addition, Ms. Kawakami’s prose can be flat and perfunctory.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

“This constellation of foreign investment from China and from Gulf States, with complex and sometimes competing relationships with the United States, demands rigorous, not perfunctory review,” Booker and the others wrote.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

As I visited congressional offices this week, meeting with sources and watching members of Congress interact with their constituents, it felt perfunctory — and, in some cases, sad.

From Salon • Feb. 13, 2026

The much criticised Youssef Chermiti scored an extraordinary double before Kasper Schmeichel flapped at Mikey Moore's perfunctory shot.

From BBC • Jan. 5, 2026

Some perfunctory clapping by the elders; and some loud shouts of ‘Frodo! Frodo! Jolly old Frodo,’ from the juniors.

From "The Fellowship of the Ring" by J.R.R. Tolkien




Vocabulary lists containing perfunctory