NSW Opportunity Class

Learn “Perfunctory”

A free exam-vocabulary guide with a precise meaning, natural context and a memory connection that makes the word easier to retrieve.

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NSW Opportunity Class

Perfunctory

adjective/per-funk-tuh-ree/

Meaning

(of an action or gesture) carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection.

In context

He gave a perfunctory nod in response to the question.

Remember it

Per-FUNCTION-ory: doing the bare function and nothing more — a quick, careless once-over.

Use it well

Pairs with small actions: a perfunctory nod, glance or apology — signals minimal effort, usually with a critical tone.