Translation guide
Describes an action done with minimal effort, without real interest or care, often as a routine or formality.
To describe an action performed in a mechanical, uninterested way, lacking enthusiasm or thoroughness.
Describes something done half-heartedly, just to get it over with, without proper care. Often used for work or duties.
He gave a perfunctory reply.
He does his work in a perfunctory manner.
Literally 'just for form's sake', implying an action done as a mere formality, without sincerity.
They exchanged perfunctory greetings.
Describes work done hastily and carelessly, just to finish it. Casual, often negative.
He submitted a perfunctory report.
Can mean 'perfunctory' when used in the sense of doing something half-heartedly or without proper thought. Context-dependent; also means 'appropriate'.
I gave a perfunctory answer.
To describe an action performed out of habit or obligation, without personal engagement.
Formal, ritualistic; implies an action done according to protocol without genuine feeling.
There was perfunctory applause.
Means 'formal' or 'perfunctory', emphasizing adherence to form over substance.
Conventional, superficial, done in a routine manner without depth.
おざなり focuses on lack of care/effort. 形だけ emphasizes formality without substance. やっつけ仕事 implies rushed, sloppy work just to finish. Choose based on nuance.
perfunctory response (careless)
perfunctory apology (insincere formality)
perfunctory paperwork (rushed and sloppy)
It was just a perfunctory inspection.
He only gave a perfunctory explanation.