Meaning & use
perfunctorily
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Meaning
adverbformaldisapproving
In a way that shows little care or interest, done only as a routine duty.
Grammar: Modifies a verb: he nodded perfunctorily. Often placed after the verb or before the main verb.
Patterns
- do something perfunctorily
- perfunctorily + verb
She checked the report perfunctorily and signed it.
He greeted us perfunctorily and returned to his work.
The guard perfunctorily waved us through the gate.
Common combinations
- nod perfunctorily
- He nodded perfunctorily and left.
- perform something perfunctorily
- The inspection was performed perfunctorily.
- answer perfunctorily
- She answered perfunctorily, without looking up.
Synonyms and how they differ
- cursorily
- Suggests a quick look without detail; perfunctorily adds a sense of duty without care.
- mechanically
- Focuses on doing something like a machine; perfunctorily stresses lack of interest.
Opposites
Word family
- perfunctory adjective
- Done without care or interest.
- perfunctoriness noun
- The quality of being perfunctory.
Commonly confused: perfunctorily or peremptorily?
perfunctorily vs peremptorily
Peremptorily means in a commanding, bossy way; perfunctorily means without care.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'perfunctorily' correctly?
Choose one answer.
Perfunctorily means doing something quickly and without care, so 'glanced at the menu' fits. The other options suggest effort or enthusiasm, which contradicts the meaning.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “perfunctorily”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.