形かたちばかり

noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'

token; for form's sake; perfunctory

Describes something done or given merely as a formality, without real substance or sincerity. Often used in humble contexts when offering a small gift or gesture.

• これは形かたちばかりのお礼れいです。

  This is just a small token of my gratitude.

• 彼かれは形かたちばかりの謝しゃ罪ざいをした。

  He gave a perfunctory apology.

• 会かい議ぎは形かたちばかりで、実じっ質しつ的てきな議ぎ論ろんはなかった。

  The meeting was just for show; there was no real discussion.