Synonyms of cursory

cursory

adjective

ˈkərs-rē 

as in hurried

acting or done with excessive or careless speed

your essays require more than a cursory effort at proofreading

Synonyms & Similar Words

• hurried
• rushed
• hasty
• drive-by
• rash
• quick
• sudden
• impulsive
• makeshift
• headlong
• reckless
• overhasty
• rapid
• precipitous
• swift
• precipitate
• flying
• spontaneous
• abrupt
• helter-skelter
• impromptu
• gadarene
• pell-mell
• rush
• breathtaking
• slapdash
• speedy
• impatient
• impetuous
• offhand
• heady
• spur-of-the-moment
• madcap
• unadvised
• snap
• breakneck
• off-the-cuff
• hotheaded
• offhanded
• headstrong
• horseback

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• deliberate
• unhurried
• circumspect
• calculated
• measured
• calculating
• prolonged
• tentative
• unrushed
• long-term
• extended
• foresighted
• hesitant
• leisurely
• slow
• faltering
• forethoughtful
• hesitating
• drawn-out
• poky
• laggard
• dallying
• dawdling
• shilly-shallying

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

Recent Examples of cursory

That distinction has been blurred by decades of left-liberal and right-liberal constitutional jurisprudence, but the distinction remains for all who have any cursory familiarity whatsoever with the history and political theory of the American Founding. —Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Aug. 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

Yet, despite the importance of this issue, boards can sometimes sidestep discussions or provide only cursory oversight of the CEO succession process. —Harry Kraemer, Forbes.com, 26 Aug. 2025

Some cursory research warned me of the dangers of blossom end rot and regular rot—two common conundrums when cultivating vining plants that grow on the ground. —Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Aug. 2025

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!