perfunctory

adjective

Pronunciation: /pərˈfʌŋktəri/

Definition

Carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection, often as a mere formality.

Examples

• The manager offered a perfunctory apology for the delay, clearly not caring that the customer was frustrated.

• His perfunctory greeting made it obvious he was in a hurry and didn't want to engage in conversation.

• The inspection was entirely perfunctory, with the official barely glancing at the equipment before signing the form.

Synonyms of perfunctory

Words with a similar meaning to perfunctory:

• cursory
• superficial
• mechanical
• desultory

Antonyms of perfunctory

Words with the opposite meaning to perfunctory:

• thorough
• meticulous

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary