Synonyms of perfunctory

perfunctory

adjective

pər-ˈfəŋ(k)-t(ə-)rē 

as in nonchalant

having or showing a lack of interest or concern

the violinist delivered a perfunctory performance that displayed none of the passion and warmth he was once known for

Synonyms & Similar Words

• nonchalant
• casual
• disinterested
• careless
• uninterested
• detached
• indifferent
• complacent
• unconcerned
• apathetic
• incurious
• insouciant
• stoic
• halfhearted
• uncurious
• tepid
• calm
• pococurante
• lukewarm
• numb
• cold
• insensible
• unemotional
• dispassionate
• aloof
• callous
• remote
• insensitive
• heedless
• mindless
• listless
• stolid
• unfeeling
• phlegmatic
• impervious
• impassive
• lethargic
• unimpressed
• cool
• hard-hearted

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• interested
• concerned
• aware
• conscientious
• attentive
• mindful
• sensitive
• warm
• fervent
• passionate
• zealous
• heedful
• ardent
• keen
• caring
• warmhearted

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of perfunctory

That is what separates a perfunctory administrator from a true sales compensation architect. — Matt Bartels, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026

These are perfunctory roles by definition, so lackeys of one kind or another are often favored. — Literary Hub, 28 Aug. 2026

This very perfunctory cover unfortunately does nothing to build on the original. — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 25 Aug. 2026

The tax breaks have become perfunctory, automatically granted if a property meets the qualifications. — Alex Nitkin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Aug. 2026

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