Which term refers to an action carried out with minimal effort because it is a duty?

Which term refers to an action carried out with minimal effort because it is a duty?

• A. Obfuscate
• B. Perfunctory
• C. Rancour
• D. Defray

Answer: (B)

Actions performed with minimal effort because they’re done as a duty are described as perfunctory. Perfunctory conveys doing something as a routine or obligation, with little genuine interest or energy—going through the motions rather than engaging fully. This sense fits the idea of a task done because it’s expected, not because it’s enjoyed or given full effort. For example, a perfunctory handshake or a perfunctory nod shows a gesture carried out more as a formality than with real enthusiasm. Other terms don’t fit this idea: obfuscate means to make something unclear on purpose; rancour refers to bitter resentment or hostility; defray means to pay part or all of the costs.

Actions performed with minimal effort because they’re done as a duty are described as perfunctory. Perfunctory conveys doing something as a routine or obligation, with little genuine interest or energy—going through the motions rather than engaging fully. This sense fits the idea of a task done because it’s expected, not because it’s enjoyed or given full effort.

For example, a perfunctory handshake or a perfunctory nod shows a gesture carried out more as a formality than with real enthusiasm.

Other terms don’t fit this idea: obfuscate means to make something unclear on purpose; rancour refers to bitter resentment or hostility; defray means to pay part or all of the costs.