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

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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 Kerry and Hal are the more perfunctory pairing, their connection more talked about than shown. — Alison Herman, Variety, 14 Aug. 2026 Poets take language—this very pedestrian, perfunctory material—and strip it down while also turning it into something greater than the sum of its parts. — Emily Watlington, ARTnews.com, 14 Aug. 2026 Consider the case of Wells Fargo , a stock with a price-to-earnings ratio of 12 that had a quarter that was roundly disliked by the analyst community, despite some perfunctory price target increases. — Jim Cramer, CNBC, 20 July 2026 An ancient Greek vase, a Dürer print, a sculpture by Jean Arp, and a Meiji-period hanging basket are given perfunctory presentations. — Jed Perl, The New York Review of Books, 4 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for perfunctory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for perfunctory
  1. nonchalant
  2. casual
Adjective
  • The plan is to keep being nonchalant about the whole thing, and hopefully their fan base will continue to grow.
    — Julius Miller, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Opting for a baggier jean style immediately reads more nonchalant, giving the overall outfit a cooler look.
    — Eva Thomas, InStyle, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of nonchalant
Adjective
  • The Clubhouse Restaurant provides a more casual option, serving familiar comfort food alongside some of the most spectacular views in Europe.
    — Jeff Goudy, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Keep it casual and stylish by pairing your maxi skirt and white tee with your comfy walking shoes for daytime sightseeing without totally sticking out like a tourist.
    — Kayla Becker, Travel + Leisure, 29 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 2026.

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