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 What Comprehensive Cyber Due Diligence Should Include True cybersecurity due diligence goes far beyond cursory questions about firewalls or antivirus software. Othman Rafay, Forbes.com, 18 Feb. 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
  • But for some reason the powers that be have decreed artificial intelligence a civilizational imperative, requiring the hurried construction of swarms of data centers, on Earth and in space.
    Mark Gongloff, Mercury News, 24 June 2026
  • Right now, decisions are being made in a hurried, contradictory fashion.
    Matteo Wong, The Atlantic, 15 June 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
  • Iranian critics of the MoU claim Tehran was too hasty in agreeing to reopen the Strait of Hormuz without gaining any tangible benefits from the agreement.
    July 1, CBS News, 1 July 2026
  • Catastrophizing, making rash decisions and hasty cuts and failing to see the situation clearly just exacerbate the issue.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
Adjective
  • The trial is scheduled to begin in August, 30 years after the rapper was killed in a drive-by shooting.
    Liza Esquibias, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • He had been targeted by a drive-by shooter in Jacksonville, Florida, and hospitalized with two gunshot wounds.
    Lauren Sausser, CBS News, 30 June 2026
Adjective
  • Typical symptoms include fever, rash, body aches, headache, nausea and vomiting.
    Dean Fioresi, CBS News, 28 June 2026
  • People who have had chickenpox are at risk of developing the burning, itchy rash years or decades later.
    Lindsey Leake, NBC news, 28 June 2026
Adjective
  • Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley There may still be questions about whether the romance between Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley was genuine, and their secret, quick-turn overseas wedding didn't help matters.
    Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 3 July 2026
  • But upon closer inspection Mbiya appears significantly leaner and quicker.
    Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Earthquakes' sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026
  • Small Holes One sign of snakes in your garden could be the sudden appearance of small holes that could be about the size of a small coin, or up to two inches.
    Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • July 3 could bring shocks or surprises; just beware of being too risky or impulsive.
    Kyle Thomas, PEOPLE, 28 June 2026
  • Seems impulsive … Carter wants to be a cop?
    William Earl, Variety, 26 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Cursory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cursory. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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