going through the motions
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"But, in the moment, when you're going through the motions, I wish people wouldn't say that, because it hurts."
From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026
It’s an assembly of archetypes going through the motions, snow falling and lights twinkling all the while.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 11, 2025
You’ve been going through the motions in life, but that’s when it gets very real.
From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 19, 2025
What an incredible way to spend your time, because I've had other jobs that have felt like going through the motions or whatever.
From Salon • Apr. 17, 2025
I wonder if that’s how they did it, the Japanese Americans who were sent to camps in World War II. Maybe they survived by going through the motions.
From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed
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