Nota: La traducción de esta entrada está actualmente en revisión de calidad, por lo que parte del contenido se muestra temporalmente solo en inglés.
Esta entrada aún no se ha traducido a tu idioma, así que se muestra el original a continuación.
perfunctory
This term describes actions performed as a mere formality, characterized by a lack of genuine interest or emotional investment. It suggests a mechanical execution of a task where the goal is simply to complete the requirement rather than to achieve a quality result. It often carries a negative connotation of negligence or indifference.
In professional or social settings, it distinguishes between a sincere gesture and one done out of obligation. While a thorough action implies depth and care, a perfunctory action is superficial, skimming the surface to satisfy a rule or a social expectation without engaging with the actual substance of the task.
Meanings
Examples
He gave the documents a perfunctory glance before signing them.
I just gave a perfunctory nod to my neighbor as I walked past.
The guard performed a perfunctory search of the bags at the gate.
She offered a perfunctory apology that sounded completely insincere.
She offered a perfunctory apology that sounded completely insincere.
Why is he being so perfunctory with his duties today?
The teacher gave the essay a perfunctory review and handed it back.
It was just a perfunctory greeting to maintain appearances.
He went through the motions in a perfunctory manner.