English vocabulary · C2
Perfunctory
/pɚˈfʌŋk.tɚ.i/ · adj.
A perfunctory task is done just to get it over with. You go through the steps but give the work very little real care or thought.
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Example sentences
- His perfunctory check missed dirt.
- She gave a perfunctory wave.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- per — through (from Latin)
- funct — do (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- HASTY — done with too much speed (Too Fast)
- CARELESS — not taking enough care (Little Attention)
- ROUTINE — done in the usual way (Usual Steps)
Words with the same root
funct — do
- function — work as intended
- defunct — no longer working
Lesson notes
A perfunctory task is done just to get it over with. You go through the steps but give the work very little real care or thought.
Related: hasty, careless, routine. Use perfunctory when care is missing.
His perfunctory check missed dirt. She gave a perfunctory wave.
From Latin. Per- means through. Funct- means do. Do just enough to get through a perfunctory check.