PERFUNCTORY Meaning and
Definition
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Perfunctory is an adjective that describes something performed in a hasty, mechanical, or superficial manner, often with little interest, enthusiasm, or care. This term implies a lack of genuine effort, thoughtfulness, or intention behind the action. When a task is done perfunctorily, it is completed with minimal attention to detail, often merely to meet a minimum requirement or to fulfill an obligation.
The word perfunctory carries a connotation of going through the motions without any real commitment or investment, suggesting a lack of sincerity or true engagement. It is commonly used to describe actions, behaviors, attitudes, or gestures that lack genuine concern or meaning. For example, a perfunctory apology is one made without genuine remorse or acknowledgment of wrongdoing. Similarly, a perfunctory conversation is one that is purely superficial, lacking any genuine interest in the subject matter or in establishing a meaningful connection.
Perfunctory actions can often be identified by their lack of thought, passion, energy, or attention to detail. They may be characterized by a sense of routine, monotony, or repetitiveness, performed out of habit or obligation rather than genuine interest or investment. The term perfunctory serves to highlight when actions or behaviors are lacking the depth, care, or commitment that we might expect or desire.
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Done only with the view of getting through duty; done carelessly or superficially; negligent.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PERFUNCTORY
- perfuntory
- oerfunctory
- lerfunctory
- -erfunctory
- 0erfunctory
- pwrfunctory
- psrfunctory
- pdrfunctory
- prrfunctory
- p4rfunctory
- p3rfunctory
- peefunctory
- pedfunctory
- peffunctory
- petfunctory
- pe5functory
- pe4functory
- perdunctory
- percunctory
- pervunctory
- perfunctoryy
- perfunctary
Etymology of PERFUNCTORY
The word "perfunctory" originated from the Latin word "perfungī", which means "to perform" or "to accomplish". It is a combination of the prefix "per-" (meaning completely or thoroughly) and "fungī" (meaning to perform or to fulfill). Over time, this Latin word evolved into the adjective "perfunctorius" in Late Latin, which was then borrowed into English during the 16th century, giving us the word "perfunctory".
Similar spelling words for PERFUNCTORY
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