Perfunctorily

/pərˈfʌŋktrəli/
adverb

Doing something mechanically or without enthusiasm or interest, just to get it done.

He perfunctorily finished his homework just minutes before the due time.
Visual representation of "perfunctorily" - Doing something mechanically or without enthusiasm or interest, just to get it done

Often appears as...

  • to do something perfunctorily
  • reply perfunctorily

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

adverb

Doing something mechanically or without enthusiasm or interest, just to get it done.

He perfunctorily finished his homework just minutes before the due time.
Visual representation of "perfunctorily" - Doing something mechanically or without enthusiasm or interest, just to get it done

Often appears as...

  • to do something perfunctorily
  • reply perfunctorily

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "perfunctorily"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Lack of Interest

Shows a minimal level of care or effort, often due to disinterest.

Illustration for Lack of Interest
He replied to the invitation perfunctorily, not really wanting to attend.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Routine Tasks

Used when actions are routine and performed without much thought.

Illustration for Routine Tasks
She perfunctorily brushed her teeth, still half-asleep.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Negative

Often has a negative emotional connotation, implying dissatisfaction.

Illustration for Emotional Negative
His applause was perfunctory, clearly unimpressed by the performance.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Lack of Interest

Shows a minimal level of care or effort, often due to disinterest.

Illustration for Lack of Interest
He replied to the invitation perfunctorily, not really wanting to attend.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Routine Tasks

Used when actions are routine and performed without much thought.

Illustration for Routine Tasks
She perfunctorily brushed her teeth, still half-asleep.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Negative

Often has a negative emotional connotation, implying dissatisfaction.

Illustration for Emotional Negative
His applause was perfunctory, clearly unimpressed by the performance.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Lack of Interest

Shows a minimal level of care or effort, often due to disinterest.

Illustration for Lack of Interest
He replied to the invitation perfunctorily, not really wanting to attend.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Routine Tasks

Used when actions are routine and performed without much thought.

Illustration for Routine Tasks
She perfunctorily brushed her teeth, still half-asleep.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Negative

Often has a negative emotional connotation, implying dissatisfaction.

Illustration for Emotional Negative
His applause was perfunctory, clearly unimpressed by the performance.
Visual representation of the word "Perfunctorily"

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Quote examples

Rebecca Pidgeon

British Actress

I met my husband at the rehearsal of a play. We were introduced, and he shook my hand without looking at me and said perfunctorily, 'Pleased to meet you.
Portrait of Rebecca Pidgeon

Quote examples

Rebecca Pidgeon

British Actress

I met my husband at the rehearsal of a play. We were introduced, and he shook my hand without looking at me and said perfunctorily, 'Pleased to meet you.
Portrait of Rebecca Pidgeon
Example 1 of 1
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