Perfunctory – Word of the Day for IELTS Speaking & Writing

Expanding your IELTS vocabulary with precise and formal words can improve your Lexical Resource score. Today’s word, “Perfunctory,” is especially useful when describing actions, attitudes, or efforts in IELTS Speaking and Writing tasks.

Meaning of “Perfunctory”

Part of Speech:
Adjective – Done without real interest, effort, or enthusiasm; superficial or routine.

Origin and History of the Word

Perfunctory is a word whose origins can be found entirely in Latin. The word first appeared in English in the late 16th century, and comes from the Late Latin word perfunctorius, meaning “done in a careless or superficial manner,”. Another possible origin is the Latin word perfungi, meaning “to accomplish” or “to get through with.” That word is formed by combining the prefix per-, meaning “through,” with the verb fungi, meaning “to perform.”

How to Use “Perfunctory” in IELTS Speaking & Writing

This word is ideal for describing people’s behaviour, attitudes, or work that lacks sincerity or thoroughness, topics often seen in IELTS Writing Task 2 and IELTS Speaking Part 3. 

Adjective – Perfunctory

Used to describe actions or behaviour that are done hastily, without care, or just to fulfill a minimum requirement.

Examples:

1. He hugged his wife, although only perfunctorily.
2. The receptionist flashed a perfunctory smile at the new guests who just walked in.
3. James did such a perfunctory job raking the leaves, I might have to do it myself.
4. The three-time golden boot winner refuses to do even the most perfunctory of interviews.
5. My professor acknowledged me with the most perfunctory nod.
6. The doctor only conducted a perfunctory exam on his patient, before discharging him.
7. My accountant only looked at my books perfunctorily. I need to fire him and find a new one.
8. My mind wasn’t present in class that day, I was simply writing down what my lecturer said, that too only perfunctorily.

IELTS Tip

Use “perfunctory” in IELTS Writing Task 2 when critiquing work ethics, service quality, or social attitudes. In IELTS Speaking Part 2 or 3, it can describe people’s behaviours or habits to show a nuanced vocabulary.

Synonyms for Perfunctory

• Superficial
• Cursory
• Mechanical
• Routine
• Half-hearted

Antonyms for Perfunctory

• Thorough
• Careful
• Detailed
• Attentive

Sample IELTS Speaking Answer using “Perfunctory”

Use in: IELTS Speaking Part 3 – Discussing work ethics

Q: How important is it to do your job carefully?
A: It’s very important because doing a perfunctory job can lead to mistakes and poor results. People who work only superficially usually don’t gain respect or success.

Sample IELTS Writing Sentence using “Perfunctory”

Use in: IELTS Writing Task 2 – Discussing education or work

Example:
Some students perform only perfunctory tasks to meet minimum requirements, which limits their learning and future prospects.

Incorporating words like “perfunctory” into your IELTS responses helps you express subtle judgments about quality and effort. Practising this word in different contexts will expand your vocabulary range and help you achieve a higher band score. If you're aiming for top IELTS Band Score, follow the IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+ to further enhance your vocabulary and overall test performance.

Also Check: 

• 21+ Tips On How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score
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• Useful Idioms for IELTS Speaking to Score Band 8.0+
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• IELTS Pronunciation Guide 2025
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