PERFUNCTORY: Synonyms and Related Words. What is Another Word for PERFUNCTORY?

Need another word that means the same as “perfunctory”? Find 6 synonyms and 30 related words for “perfunctory” in this overview.

The synonyms of “Perfunctory” are: casual, cursory, passing, superficial, pro forma, desultory

Perfunctory as an Adjective

Definitions of "Perfunctory" as an adjective

According to the Oxford Dictionary of English, “perfunctory” as an adjective can have the following definitions:

• Hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough.
• As a formality only.
• (of an action) carried out without real interest, feeling, or effort.
• Done or produced as a formality only.

Synonyms of "Perfunctory" as an adjective (6 Words)

casual	Marked by blithe unconcern. A casual attitude to life.
cursory	Hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough. A cursory glance at the figures.
desultory	Occurring randomly or occasionally. Desultory passengers were appearing.
passing	(of a period of time) going by. A team with a good passing attack.
pro forma	In favor of (an action or proposal etc.
superficial	Appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely. The resemblance between the breeds is superficial.

Usage Examples of "Perfunctory" as an adjective

• Perfunctory courtesy.
• He gave a perfunctory nod.

Associations of "Perfunctory" (30 Words)

alert	A warning serves to make you more alert to danger. He alerted people to the dangers of smoking.
attention	A courteous act indicating affection. She tried to win his heart with her many attentions.
attentive	Taking heed; giving close and thoughtful attention. Ministers should be more attentive to the interests of taxpayers.
aware	Having or showing knowledge or understanding or realization or perception. He was aware that a problem existed.
beware	Be on one’s guard; be cautious or wary about; be alert to. We should beware the incompetence of legislators.
careful	Full of cares or anxiety. Thou art careful and troubled about many things.
cautious	People who are fearful and cautious. Reserved and cautious never making swift decisions.
chary	Characterized by great caution and wariness. Chary of the risks involved.
circumspect	Wary and unwilling to take risks. The officials were very circumspect in their statements.
compelling	Not able to be refuted; inspiring conviction. New and compelling evidence.
cursory	Hasty and without attention to detail; not thorough. A casual or cursory inspection failed to reveal the house s structural flaws.
deliberation	Careful consideration. He replaced the glass on the table with deliberation.
discreet	Marked by prudence or modesty and wise self-restraint. A discreet cough.
discreetly	In an intentionally unobtrusive manner. He discreetly inquired whether the position was still available.
flatly	Without marked contrast of light and dark. He flatly denied the charges.
forethought	Judiciousness in avoiding harm or danger. Jim had the forethought to book in advance.
formal	A lavish dance requiring formal attire. The college will be hosting their annual formal on February 6.
hasty	Quick-tempered. Hasty decisions.
mandatory	Required by law or mandate; compulsory. Wearing helmets was made mandatory for pedal cyclists.
measured	Having notes of fixed rhythmic value. With measured irony.
mindful	Inclined or willing to do something. Tune in to your body and be mindful.
obligate	Require or compel (someone) to undertake a legal or moral duty. An obligate anaerobe can survive only in the absence of oxygen.
obligatory	(of a ruling) having binding force. Attendance is obligatory.
prudent	Careful and sensible; marked by sound judgment. More prudent to hide than to fight.
required	Required by rule. Required reading.
thoughtful	Taking heed giving close and thoughtful attention. A deeply thoughtful essay.
unconditionally	Not subject to a condition. The enemy forces surrendered unconditionally.
vigilant	Carefully observant or attentive; on the lookout for possible danger. The vigilant eye of the town watch.
wary	Feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems. Taught to be wary of strangers.
watchful	Wakeful; sleepless. They attended dances under the watchful eye of their father.