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Cursory - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Cursory means done quickly and without attention to detail. It describes a superficial or hasty examination, often lacking thoroughness, such as a cursory glance at a document.

cursory

/ˈkɜr.sɚ.i/ /ˈkɜː.sər.i/

Definition:

Quick and superficial, without attention to detail.

Synonyms:

hasty, perfunctory, superficial, rushed

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

thorough, meticulous, detailed

Common Collocations:

cursory glance, cursory examination, cursory look, cursory review

Derivatives:

cursorily, cursoriness

Usage Tips:

Use "cursory" to describe actions done hastily or without depth, often implying negligence or lack of care.

Common Phrases:

cursory glance, cursory inspection, cursory reading

Etymology:

From Latin "cursorius" (of a runner), from "currere" (to run), reflecting speed over thoroughness.

Examples:

  • 1. She gave the report a cursory glance before the meeting.
  • 2. His cursory inspection missed several critical errors in the document.
  • 3. The teacher’s feedback was disappointingly cursory and unhelpful.
  • 4. A cursory search online won’t yield reliable results for your research.

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