cursory 🔊
Meaning of cursory
Done quickly and without attention to detail.
Key Difference
Unlike synonyms such as 'thorough' or 'detailed,' 'cursory' implies a lack of depth or completeness in examination.
Example of cursory
- The manager gave the report only a cursory glance before the meeting.
- A cursory inspection of the ancient manuscript revealed its age but not its true significance.
Synonyms
superficial 🔊
Meaning of superficial
Existing or occurring at the surface; shallow.
Key Difference
While 'cursory' emphasizes speed, 'superficial' focuses on lacking depth in understanding.
Example of superficial
- His superficial knowledge of the topic became obvious during the debate.
- The repair was only superficial and did not address the underlying issue.
perfunctory 🔊
Meaning of perfunctory
Carried out with minimal effort or reflection.
Key Difference
'Perfunctory' suggests a mechanical or routine action, whereas 'cursory' implies haste.
Example of perfunctory
- She gave a perfunctory nod to the idea without really considering it.
- The applause after the speech was perfunctory and lacked enthusiasm.
hasty 🔊
Meaning of hasty
Done with excessive speed or urgency.
Key Difference
'Hasty' can apply to any quick action, while 'cursory' specifically relates to a lack of attention to detail.
Example of hasty
- His hasty decision led to unforeseen complications.
- A hasty review of the contract missed several critical clauses.
brief 🔊
Meaning of brief
Short in duration.
Key Difference
'Brief' refers to time, whereas 'cursory' emphasizes the lack of thoroughness.
Example of brief
- The CEO gave a brief overview of the company’s performance.
- We had a brief conversation about the upcoming project.
rapid 🔊
Meaning of rapid
Happening in a short time or at high speed.
Key Difference
'Rapid' describes speed, while 'cursory' implies a lack of depth in examination.
Example of rapid
- The rapid growth of the city surprised urban planners.
- He made a rapid assessment of the situation before acting.
glancing 🔊
Meaning of glancing
Quick and not focused.
Key Difference
'Glancing' often refers to a physical look, while 'cursory' can apply to any quick examination.
Example of glancing
- She gave the document a glancing look before signing it.
- A glancing blow from the sword barely grazed his armor.
summary 🔊
Meaning of summary
Concise and without detailed explanation.
Key Difference
'Summary' implies a condensed version, while 'cursory' suggests a rushed examination.
Example of summary
- The judge provided a summary of the case before the verdict.
- He gave a summary explanation of the complex theory.
fleeting 🔊
Meaning of fleeting
Lasting for a very short time.
Key Difference
'Fleeting' refers to duration, whereas 'cursory' implies a lack of attention.
Example of fleeting
- Their meeting was fleeting but memorable.
- He caught only a fleeting glimpse of the rare bird.
passing 🔊
Meaning of passing
Quick and not lasting long.
Key Difference
'Passing' refers to brevity in time, while 'cursory' describes a quick, incomplete examination.
Example of passing
- She made a passing remark about the weather.
- The doctor gave the patient only a passing glance.
Conclusion
- 'Cursory' is best used when describing a quick, often careless examination that lacks depth.
- 'Superficial' can be used when referring to shallow understanding without implying speed.
- If an action is done out of routine rather than haste, 'perfunctory' is the better choice.
- When emphasizing speed without necessarily implying negligence, 'hasty' is more appropriate.
- For short durations without implying examination, 'brief' is the right word.
- When describing high speed in general, 'rapid' fits better than 'cursory.'
- For a quick physical look, 'glancing' is more precise.
- If referring to a condensed version of something, 'summary' is the correct term.
- For something lasting only a moment, 'fleeting' is ideal.
- When describing something transient, 'passing' is the best choice.