Meaning & Definition of word "Cursory"

Cursory

ˈkɜːrsəri

adjective:

  • 1. Hasty and therefore not thorough or detailed.
    • Example: Her cursory glance at the report missed several critical errors.
  • 2. Performed with a lack of attention to detail.
    • Example: The manager gave a cursory review of the proposal before the meeting.
  • 3. Superficial; lacking depth.
    • Example: His cursory understanding of the topic led to many misconceptions.
  • 4. Quick and not thorough.
    • Example: The cursory inspection of the building revealed no immediate problems.

Etymology

From Latin 'cursorius', from 'cursus', meaning 'a running'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cursory glance:

A quick look without focusing on details.

cursory examination:

A rapid check that lacks thorough investigation.

Related Words

scant:

Barely sufficient or inadequate.

perfunctory:

Carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection.

Slang Meanings of cursory

Meaning: Quick and careless.

Example Sentence: That project was just a cursory effort; it needs more work.

Meaning: Too fast to be good quality.

Example Sentence: Her cursory review left out the important points.