perfunctory
per·func·to·ry
adjective \pər-ˈfəŋ(k)-t(ə-)rē\Definition of PERFUNCTORY
1
: characterized by routine or superficiality : mechanical <a perfunctory smile>
2
: lacking in interest or enthusiasm
— per·func·to·ri·ly \-t(ə-)rə-lē\ adverb
— per·func·to·ri·ness \-t(ə-)rē-nəs\ noun
Examples of PERFUNCTORY
- <the violinist delivered a perfunctory performance that displayed none of the passion and warmth he was once known for>
- The eight-time Pro Bowl player sometimes goes several weeks without agreeing to do even the most perfunctory postgame interviews. —Nunyo Demasio, Sports Illustrated, 8 Jan. 2007
- Convivial and self-absorbed, he talks freely about crime and crooks, with only the most perfunctory nods toward conventional morality. —Edward Dolnick, The Rescue Artist, 2005
- You probably don't want to know how perfunctory was the presentation of the state's evidence, how tenth-rate was the performance of the court-appointed defense or how wretched was the end. —Christopher Hitchens, Nation, 23-30 Aug. 1999
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Origin of PERFUNCTORY
Related to PERFUNCTORY
- Synonyms
- apathetic, casual, complacent, disinterested, incurious, insensible, insouciant, nonchalant, indifferent, pococurante, unconcerned, uncurious, uninterested
- Antonyms
- concerned, interested
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