How Do You Spell PERFUNCTORY?

Pronunciation: [pəfˈʌŋktəɹˌi] (IPA)

Perfunctory, spelled as /pəˈfʌŋktəri/, is an adjective that describes something that is done without enthusiasm and as a matter of routine. The word is derived from the Latin word "perfunctorius" which means "done in a careless or superficial way". The IPA phonetic transcription shows that the word is pronounced with the primary stress on the second syllable, and the schwa sound at the beginning of the first syllable. Correct spelling is important to ensure effective communication and to eliminate any confusion that may arise from misspelling.

PERFUNCTORY Meaning and Definition

1. Perfunctory is an adjective that describes something performed in a hasty, mechanical, or superficial manner, often with little interest, enthusiasm, or care. This term implies a lack of genuine effort, thoughtfulness, or intention behind the action. When a task is done perfunctorily, it is completed with minimal attention to detail, often merely to meet a minimum requirement or to fulfill an obligation.

   The word perfunctory carries a connotation of going through the motions without any real commitment or investment, suggesting a lack of sincerity or true engagement. It is commonly used to describe actions, behaviors, attitudes, or gestures that lack genuine concern or meaning. For example, a perfunctory apology is one made without genuine remorse or acknowledgment of wrongdoing. Similarly, a perfunctory conversation is one that is purely superficial, lacking any genuine interest in the subject matter or in establishing a meaningful connection.

   Perfunctory actions can often be identified by their lack of thought, passion, energy, or attention to detail. They may be characterized by a sense of routine, monotony, or repetitiveness, performed out of habit or obligation rather than genuine interest or investment. The term perfunctory serves to highlight when actions or behaviors are lacking the depth, care, or commitment that we might expect or desire.

2. Done only with the view of getting through duty; done carelessly or superficially; negligent.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PERFUNCTORY

• perfuntory
• oerfunctory
• lerfunctory
• -erfunctory
• 0erfunctory
• pwrfunctory
• psrfunctory
• pdrfunctory
• prrfunctory
• p4rfunctory
• p3rfunctory
• peefunctory
• pedfunctory
• peffunctory
• petfunctory
• pe5functory
• pe4functory
• perdunctory
• percunctory
• pervunctory
• perfunctoryy
• perfunctary

Etymology of PERFUNCTORY

The word "perfunctory" originated from the Latin word "perfungī", which means "to perform" or "to accomplish". It is a combination of the prefix "per-" (meaning completely or thoroughly) and "fungī" (meaning to perform or to fulfill). Over time, this Latin word evolved into the adjective "perfunctorius" in Late Latin, which was then borrowed into English during the 16th century, giving us the word "perfunctory".

Similar spelling words for PERFUNCTORY

• perfunctorily,
• perfumer,
• perfumery.