Definitions

perfunctory

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

ADJECTIVE

automatic, unthinking

Synonyms

STRONGEST

cursory offhand sketchy superficial

WEAK

apathetic careless cool disinterested going through the motions heedless impersonal inattentive indifferent involuntary lackadaisical laid-back mechanical negligent phoning it in routine slipshod slovenly standard stereotyped stock unaware unconcerned uninterested usual walking through it wooden

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careful complete detailed thorough

WEAK

precise thoughtful

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.

Perfunctory, easy patriotism is symbolized by a flag pin tacked to a suit jacket.

From Washington Post • Apr. 14, 2020

Perfunctory as this film’s gestures toward originality may be, The Amazing Spider-Man does what it does pretty well.

From Slate • Jul. 4, 2012

Perfunctory was the opening last week of the first regular session of the 71st Congress.

From Time Magazine Archive

Perfunctory direction by Berthold Viertel, and the wooden way in which Ralph Bellamy plays the soldier make The Magnificent Lie seem trite and unmagnificent.

From Time Magazine Archive

"Perfunctory" is the word which one must use to describe the creative impulse of which they are the ungrateful legacy—an impulse less spontaneous, there is reason to believe, than utilitarian.

From Edward MacDowell by Gilman, Lawrence

Vocabulary lists containing perfunctory

100 Words to Make You Sound Smart

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"The Lottery," Vocabulary from the short story

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"The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson

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