CURSORY Synonyms: 66 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'cursory' contrast with its synonyms?

The words shallow and superficial are common synonyms of cursory . While all three words mean "lacking in depth or solidity," cursory suggests a lack of thoroughness or a neglect of details. // gave the letter only a cursory reading

Q: When would 'shallow' be a good substitute for 'cursory'?

The words shallow and cursory can be used in similar contexts, but shallow is more generally derogatory in implying lack of depth in knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character. // a light, shallow , and frivolous review

Q: When is it sensible to use 'superficial' instead of 'cursory'?

The synonyms superficial and cursory are sometimes interchangeable, but superficial implies a concern only with surface aspects or obvious features. // a superficial analysis of the problem

cursory

adjective

ˈkərs-rē

Definition of cursory next

as in hurried

acting or done with excessive or careless speed your essays require more than a cursory effort at proofreading

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How does the adjective cursory contrast with its synonyms?

The words shallow and superficial are common synonyms of cursory. While all three words mean "lacking in depth or solidity," cursory suggests a lack of thoroughness or a neglect of details.

gave the letter only a cursory reading

When would shallow be a good substitute for cursory?

The words shallow and cursory can be used in similar contexts, but shallow is more generally derogatory in implying lack of depth in knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character.

a light, shallow, and frivolous review

When is it sensible to use superficial instead of cursory?

The synonyms superficial and cursory are sometimes interchangeable, but superficial implies a concern only with surface aspects or obvious features.

a superficial analysis of the problem

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of cursory The individual elements of Ka’s style would be familiar to a listener with even a cursory knowledge of rap. —

Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 15 Oct. 2024 Even a cursory examination of this framework reveals the undeniable link between systemic oppression and privilege. —

Ebony Flake, Essence, 30 July 2024 Taking advantage of the rebels’ generally low levels of education and cursory understanding of democracy, Islamist lecturers condemn the evils of Western-style democracy and tout the benefits of an Islamic state. —

Vera Mironova, Foreign Affairs, 13 Jan. 2015 Even Dave Chapelle’s inflammatory transphobic material gets only cursory coverage. —

David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 15 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for cursory

Recent Examples of Synonyms for cursory

Adjective

Overhead, a pair of firefighting helicopters circled in constant, hurried laps between the lake and the burning hillsides.

— Wally Skalij, Los Angeles Times, 23 Jan. 2025
He’s got quick crossover acceleration with a hurried stride that cranks its way up ice to give him good speed.

— Scott Wheeler, The Athletic, 16 Jan. 2025