Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

perfunctory

adjective

/pərˈfʌŋk.tər.i/

Definition

An action carried out with minimal effort or reflection; done as a routine duty.

Examples

She gave a perfunctory nod to acknowledge the presentation, but her mind was elsewhere.
His perfunctory effort in preparing for the exam led to disappointing results.
The waiter took our order with a perfunctory smile, clearly preoccupied with something else.

Meaning

When something is performed perfunctorily, it is done in a way that shows little interest or enthusiasm, often to fulfill a requirement without genuine engagement.