What does perfunctorily mean?
Perfunctorily means in a routine or cursory way, usually without real interest, care, or attention. Someone who behaves perfunctorily may nod, greet another person, or complete a task merely as part of a routine rather than because they are genuinely engaged. The word often conveys criticism, suggesting that the minimum effort has been made and that the action lacks sincerity or thoroughness. It can also have a less negative, more descriptive use for work performed mechanically or automatically. Perfunctorily is especially common in descriptions of professional and social behaviour, such as a perfunctory handshake, greeting, inspection, or apology. The related adjective perfunctory describes the underlying quality of the action, while perfunctoriness names that quality as an abstract noun.
adverbIn a routine or cursory manner, without genuine interest, care, or attention.
- In a routine, cursory, or unenthusiastic manner; without genuine attention or care.
"She gave the proposal a perfunctory nod without reading it."
"The security guard checked our bags perfunctorily and waved us through."
"Her apology sounded perfunctory, as though she had not really understood what she had done."
Perfunctorily describes an action performed just well enough to get through the routine, but not with real care or enthusiasm.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does perfunctorily come from?
The word comes from the Latin adjective perfunctorius, meaning “carelessly done” or “performed without care,” which is related to perfungere, “to perform” or “to discharge.” English borrowed the adjective perfunctory in the early 17th century, and the adverb perfunctorily was formed later using the standard -ly suffix. The Latin root also underlies the related noun perfunctoriness, meaning habitual or cursory performance.
How perfunctorily is actually used
The adverb is generally critical when describing speech, behaviour, or work: it suggests that an action is performed only as a routine formality, often with little thought or sincerity. It can also be used neutrally to describe repetitive work done quickly and mechanically.