perfunctory

adjective

pər-ˈfəŋ(k)-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce perfunctory (audio)
Definition of perfunctorynext
as in nonchalant
having or showing a lack of interest or concern the violinist delivered a perfunctory performance that displayed none of the passion and warmth he was once known for

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of perfunctory That is what separates a perfunctory administrator from a true sales compensation architect. — Matt Bartels, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026 These are perfunctory roles by definition, so lackeys of one kind or another are often favored. — Literary Hub, 28 Aug. 2026 This very perfunctory cover unfortunately does nothing to build on the original. — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 25 Aug. 2026 The tax breaks have become perfunctory, automatically granted if a property meets the qualifications. — Alex Nitkin, Chicago Tribune, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfunctory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfunctory
  1. nonchalant
  2. casual
Adjective
  • Off-duty models stepped out in nonchalant style, pairing the jeans with basic tops and simple belts, while fashion show attendees elevated the laidback fits with button-down denim shirts, neckties and colorful knitwear.
    — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Just a rugged man in a stream There is, of course, nothing nonchalant about the exchange.
    — Jack Dolan, Los Angeles Times, 16 Sep. 2026
Definition of nonchalant
Adjective
  • The casual setup and price points at Tiger’s Den swing the sushi pendulum away from ultra luxury and back toward its origins in Japan as a quick, working-class meal.
    — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026
  • The trick is to break up the jacket-and-skirt combo and pair each with more casual pieces that take the edge off its classic finish.
    — Tatiana Ojea, Glamour, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of casual

Browse Nearby Words

perfunctoriness
perfunctory
pergola
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Cite this Entry

“Perfunctory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/perfunctory. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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