Definition of cursorynext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective cursory contrast with its synonyms?

The words shallow and superficial are common synonyms of cursory. While all three words mean "lacking in depth or solidity," cursory suggests a lack of thoroughness or a neglect of details.

gave the letter only a cursory reading

When would shallow be a good substitute for cursory?

The words shallow and cursory can be used in similar contexts, but shallow is more generally derogatory in implying lack of depth in knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character.

a light, shallow, and frivolous review

When is it sensible to use superficial instead of cursory?

The synonyms superficial and cursory are sometimes interchangeable, but superficial implies a concern only with surface aspects or obvious features.

a superficial analysis of the problem

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cursory After the match, the two exchanged a cursory handshake with Cirstea barely glancing in Osaka’s direction. Adam Zagoria, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026 Even a cursory review of the nation’s political violence in recent years makes clear there is plenty of blame to go around. Ronald J. Hansen, AZCentral.com, 19 Sep. 2025 In between checking in on the new collection’s progress, the film offers a fairly cursory overview of Jacobs’ career to date, beginning with his graduation from New York’s Parsons School of Design in the mid-Eighties. Guy Lodge, Variety, 2 Sep. 2025 Miami had cursory contact with Samuel’s representation but never strongly pursued him or invited him for a visit. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cursory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cursory
Adjective
  • In addition, the hurried evaluation and adoption of this proposal, which became public less than a week ago, is unnecessary.
    Jeff Kottkamp, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 June 2026
  • Galena’s Historic District was ranked 66 for its relaxed environment and disconnection from the modern hurried atmosphere, according to the publication.
    Cam'ron Hardy, Chicago Tribune, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • Instead, Mahan and his wealthy Silicon Valley backers talked themselves into a rushed and premature campaign that was never remotely competitive.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2026
  • As immigration officers arrested her six weeks ago, through tears and a rushed goodbye, Maria de Jesus Estrada Juarez had a request for her daughter.
    Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 6 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • This cultural reinforcement of speed over thoughtful planning can lead to hasty decisions that ultimately create more problems that the COO is then expected to solve.
    Allison Mais, Forbes.com, 26 May 2026
  • But don’t be hasty about buying electronics in May.
    Allison Gibson, Sacbee.com, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • One person was hurt in a drive-by shooting at an intersection in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, Monday night, police said.
    WCCO Staff, CBS News, 9 June 2026
  • Seven years back, when the youngest son of Ojeda’s four children was just 1 year old, he was shot in a drive-by.
    Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 6 June 2026
Adjective
  • Growing up spending lots of time in Australia, rash guards (aka rashis) were part of the uniform.
    Madeleine Schulz, Vogue, 8 June 2026
  • Botts says symptoms are two to eight hours delayed after exposure, and can include hives or rash, nausea, stomach pain, cough, shortness of breath and swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or eyelids.
    Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 8 June 2026
Adjective
  • After a quick review, it was determined that the clock hit zero before the puck crossed the goal line, restoring a 3-1 lead for Carolina heading into intermission.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 10 June 2026
  • Tolle recorded two quick outs before a single by Williamson, hit-by-pitch to Fortes, and an RBI single by second baseman Richie Palacios.
    Gabrielle Starr, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026
Adjective
  • Brexton Busch, the 11-year-old son of NASCAR superstar Kyle Busch, did something for the first time since the sudden and tragic passing of his father.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 11 June 2026
  • His wife looks at me with sudden seriousness.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 June 2026
Adjective
  • Mickey Todiwala Leaving software engineering wasn't an impulsive decision.
    Mike Winters Mickey Todiwala, CNBC, 4 June 2026
  • What moved me most in The Testaments was its cast of teenage girls — the Plums seemed to be sparkling, creative, impulsive, curious, deeply loyal, and ready to question the world around them.
    Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 4 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Cursory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cursory. Accessed 11 Jun. 2026.

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