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 perfunctory The awards are granted by County Commission votes, which are typically perfunctory at the end of a meeting. Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 23 July 2025 Time after time, your off-brand chocobo will deliver you to a monster's lair for a perfunctory pummeling while your companions spout exposition. James Perkins Mastromarino, NPR, 14 Mar. 2025 The doc opens with a perfunctory overview of the artist’s early life, touching briefly on his childhood in Chicago and how the church introduced him to and shaped his musical style. Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 14 Mar. 2025 Some feel a bit perfunctory and unrevealing, such as Jack Black popping in for a segment to talk about the late Meat Loaf’s scene-stealing cameo. Wilson Chapman, IndieWire, 11 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for perfunctory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfunctory
Adjective
  • Faced with punishment from school administrators, Westman appeared alternately nervous and nonchalant, the former employee said.
    Tim Stelloh, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2025
  • This isn’t the first time Kravitz and her stylist, Danielle Goldberg, have embraced nonchalant suiting on her press tour.
    Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 26 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Perfect for long flights, city strolls, or casual dinners, the moisture-wicking fabric is stretchy, breathable, and even offers UPF 40+ sun protection.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Keep it casual in sneakers, or wear it with suede ankle booties to the pumpkin patch.
    Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Perfunctory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfunctory. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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