Definition of cursorynext

Synonym Chooser

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

Example 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 Even a cursory review of the nation’s political violence in recent years makes clear there is plenty of blame to go around. Ronald J. Hansen, AZCentral.com, 19 Sep. 2025 In between checking in on the new collection’s progress, the film offers a fairly cursory overview of Jacobs’ career to date, beginning with his graduation from New York’s Parsons School of Design in the mid-Eighties. Guy Lodge, Variety, 2 Sep. 2025 Miami had cursory contact with Samuel’s representation but never strongly pursued him or invited him for a visit. Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2025 Some cursory research warned me of the dangers of blossom end rot and regular rot—two common conundrums when cultivating vining plants that grow on the ground. Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cursory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cursory
Adjective
  • Pre-existing structures, supported by documentation and commercial logic, carry far more weight than hurried adjustments made after funds are already exposed.
    Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 11 Mar. 2026
  • They were blown out by the Boston Celtics on Sunday before losing by one at home to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday when Luka Doncic passed up a three and threw the ball to LeBron James, who missed a hurried, last-second three.
    Senior Editor, Los Angeles Times, 27 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Little emphasized the need to ease property taxes in a letter accompanying his signature but criticized Moyle’s approach as rushed and overly complex.
    Mark Dee March 6, Idaho Statesman, 7 Mar. 2026
  • May 21 – June 20 Steady, thoughtful sentences are your friend — skip the rushed word vomit!
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 18 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The letter described the March 9 vote as hasty, given that the vote to reject the city’s offer was driven by three unions representing a majority of those present at the meeting.
    Gayla Cawley, Boston Herald, 19 Mar. 2026
  • Apparently, in the hasty move to LACMA, someone had forgotten to bring a dimmer.
    Benjamin Svetkey, HollywoodReporter, 18 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • One woman was killed and a second was injured in a drive-by shooting Friday night at a funeral home, according to East Point police.
    Alexis Stevens, AJC.com, 10 Jan. 2026
  • In another case in Atlanta, two 13-year-old boys were killed in a drive-by shooting ordered by an incarcerated gang leader.
    Christopher Harris, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • However, before any other officers could arrive on the scene, Pete made the rash decision to cover up Kay’s involvement by shooting the serial killer’s body a couple more times.
    Max Gao, HollywoodReporter, 16 Mar. 2026
  • Symptoms of measles include rash, high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes.
    Laura Turbay, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Practical pitches can gain quick support.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Amazon’s new delivery options are likely to compete with quick-commerce apps like Instacart, DoorDash, and Uber Eats.
    Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 17 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • While humans can guide robots remotely, the process is mentally exhausting and often too slow to prevent sudden failures.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 19 Mar. 2026
  • Now, all of a sudden, there are many acting opportunities.
    Stephen Schaefer, Boston Herald, 19 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • That decline often leads to impulsive or overly cautious actions.
    Fazila Shahid, Miami Herald, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Just be wise about your investments — avoid impulsive window shopping in favor of researching quality items that increase your quality of life.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 12 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Cursory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cursory. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

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