perfunctory JUST WRITTEN FOR YOU
/pəˈfʌŋk.t(ə)ɹɪ/ · per.fun.c.to.ry
adjective
- Done only to fulfil a duty, or in a careless or indifferent manner; performed mechanically and as a thing of rote. He did a perfunctory job cleaning his dad's car, finishing quickly but leaving a few spots still dirty.
- Lacking enthusiasm or interest; done without much thought or effort. The perfunctory applause at the end of the presentation was a sign that the audience was unimpressed.
- Done in a routine or habitual manner, without much attention to detail. The perfunctory inspection of the equipment was not thorough enough to catch the critical flaw.
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Did you know? The word 'perfunctory' is often used to describe actions that are done out of a sense of duty or obligation, rather than enthusiasm or interest. This can be seen in phrases like 'going through the motions' or 'doing the bare minimum'.